the short answer is "no. " you cannot get west nile virus by coming in contact with a person who has the illness. west nile virus is spread by infected mosquitos. you can only get west nile virus if you are bitten by an infected mosquito. the best way to avoid getting west nile virus is to use an insect repellent whenever you plan to be outdoors during the summer and fall when the mosquito population is highest. the centers for disease control recommends using a product that contains one of these active ingredients: • deet • picaridin • oil of lemon eucalyptus (or pmd) • ir3535 mosquito activity increases at dusk and dawn. if you must be outside during these times use insect repellant and wear long sleeves and pants if possible. the key to avoiding west nile virus is to avoid being bitten by an infected mosquito. symptoms of the illness may include headache nausea vomiting a stiff neck or muscle weakness. if you have been exposed to mosquito bites and have any of these symptoms see your healthcare provider.
is west nile virus contagious?