West Nile virus Description

West Nile virus has been spreading across the North American continent since 1999. West Nile is spread to humans by receiving a bite from an infected mosquito. Mosquito’s usually become infected by feeding on infected birds. Individuals are at the highest risk during the summer and fall months due to the influx of mosquitoes at that time of year.

Most people infected with the West Nile Virus show no symptoms of infection, but roughly 1 in 150 people will develop severe illness. Symptoms include fever, headache, disorientation, nausea, vomiting, convulsions, muscle weakness, and paralysis. Symptoms typically develop 3-14 days after an infected mosquito has bitten you. People over 50 years old are at a higher risk to suffer from severe illness.

At Benchmark Research we are currently looking for patients to participate in a clinical trial for a West Nile Vaccine. Call us to find out more about the West Nile vaccine and to see if you qualify for a study near you.