Introduction

West Nile virus (WNV) is a virus that's found in many countries around the worldand spread by mosquitoes.

Most cases of WNV are not serious and many people have no symptoms or only mild Bird flu -like symptoms, such as headaches , muscle aches and a high temperature(fever).

Seriousproblems occur infewer than 1 in 100 people infected with the virus,but can include infection of the brain ( encephalitis ), spinal cord, and tissues surrounding the brain and spinal cord ( meningitis ), which can be fatal.

Signs of a severe infection can includemuscle weakness, disorientation, seizures (fits) and loss of consciousness.

You should seek medical advice as soon as possible if you develop symptoms of WNV while you are travelling or after you return home. Make sure you tell the health practitioner where you have been travelling.

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 5 Dec 2016