Who is at greatest risk of getting severely ill from WNV?
People over the age of 50 have a higher chance of getting sick and are more likely to develop serious symptoms when infected with West Nile virus. Being outside, especially at dawn or at dusk, increases your risk of being bitten by an infected mosquito. Take precautions to avoid mosquito bites if you spend a lot of time outside, either working or playing. Risk of transmission through medical procedures is very low. All donated blood is checked for West Nile Virus before being used. The risk of getting WNV though blood transfusions and organ transplants is very small, and should not prevent people who need surgery from having it.
