Viruses

MosquitoWest Nile Virus

West Nile virus (WNV) is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the continental United States. It is most commonly spread to people by the bite of an infected mosquito. Cases of WNV occur during mosquito season, which starts in the summer and continues through fall. There are no vaccines to prevent or medications to treat WNV in people. Fortunately, most people infected with WNV do not feel sick. About 1 in 5 people who are infected develop a fever and other symptoms. About 1 out of 150 infected people develop a serious, sometimes fatal, illness. You can reduce your risk of WNV by using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants to prevent mosquito bites.

At-A-Glance

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Zika VirusMother sick child

Additional Information:

Mosquitoes and Hurricanes

Men and Zika

What's your Zika IQ?Image of mosquito

Pregnant women

Areas with Risk of Zika

Information for Specific Groups

Small MosquitoWhat's your Zika IQ?

Communication Resources

For Travelers

In 2018 and 2019, no local mosquito-borne Zika virus transmission has been reported in the continental United States.

If you are traveling outside of the continental United States, see Zika Travel Information to learn about your destination.

Prevent mosquito bites when traveling:

  • Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellent to protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites.
  • Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants
  • Treat clothing and gear with permethrin or buy permethrin-treated clothing and gear.

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Content provided and maintained by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Please see our system usage guidelines and disclaimer.