Most people infected with WNV (approximately 80%) are asymptomatic. However, about 20% of infected individuals may develop a mild illness known as West Nile Fever, characterized by symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. A small percentage (less than 1%) may develop severe neurological illnesses, including encephalitis or meningitis, which can lead to high fever, neck stiffness, disorientation, coma, tremors, seizures, and paralysis.
