West Nile Virus

What is West Nile virus?
West Nile virus is primarily a disease of birds. It is passed on when a mosquito bites a bird carrying the virus, which then becomes infected and transmits it to humans when biting them. West Nile virus may become a condition of concern in those who contract it, sometimes causing fever or more serious illnesses, and occasionally death.

Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department goals:

Provide outreach and education to the public so people can protect themselves from mosquito bites and reduce mosquito breeding habitat.
Conduct mosquito and bird surveillance to monitor for the presence of the virus.
Coordinate our efforts with other Pierce County agencies and Washington State Department of Health for preventing illness.

Learn more...

Background
Spread, Risk and Symptoms
Preventing Mosquito Bites
Animal Illness
Surveillance

For more information call 253 798-6578 or email.

Last Updated: Aug 1, 2006 12:34 PM