Can someone get WNV encephalitis from another person?
No. Encephalitis is a condition that can result from WNV infection. A condition cannot be transmitted. Can you get WNV directly from other insects or ticks? Infected mosquitoes are the primary source of WNV. Although ticks infected with WNV have been found in Asia and Africa, their role in the transmission and maintenance of the virus is uncertain. However, there is no information to suggest that ticks played any role in the cases identified in the U.S. Can you get WNV directly from birds? There is no evidence that a person can get the virus from handling live or dead infected birds. However, a person should never handle any dead animal without wearing gloves. The carcass should be placed in double plastic bags before being disposed of in the garbage. After disposing of the dead bird, remove the gloves and wash the hands thoroughly with warm water and soap. What can I do to reduce my risk of becoming infected with WNV? • Avoid mosquito bites to avoid infection! • Be extra vigilant betw
