West Nile Virus Information for Physicians

West Nile virus (WNV) has been detected in many regions of the state. Physicians should:

• Be aware if WNV is active in their area
• Look for symptoms of WNV
• Test for WNV because testing:
  • differentiates WNV from other conditions (enterovirus, other arboviral diseases) and thus may prompt a change in treatment regime
  • results offer anticipatory guidance--both WNV neuroinvasive disease and WN fever patients can have lingering symptoms and knowing the underlying etiology is helpful for the patient and family members
  • helps mosquito control and public health agencies institute proper control measures to reduce the risk of further cases in the event of a positive result
• Contact their local public health department for details on sample submission and testing

For additional information, please see these resources:

• WNV: Keep it on Your Radar (up to date clinical and epidemiologic presentation on WNV)
• Flyer for Physicians on West Nile Virus
• West Nile Virus Disease During Pregnancy
• West Nile Virus Information and Guidance for Physicians