Mosquito-borne infection
West Nile
Most infections cause no symptoms; a small proportion cause serious neurological illness.
Explore West Nile on the monitor · Reviewed 2026-10-06
How it spreads
Usually infected mosquito bites in a cycle involving birds; casual contact does not spread it.
Symptoms and context
Possible fever, headache and body aches; severe disease may cause neck stiffness, confusion or weakness.
Prevention
Prevent mosquito bites with repellent, screens and covering clothing; reduce standing water.
When to seek advice
Obtain urgent care for severe headache with neck stiffness, confusion, new weakness or seizures.
On the desk
- West Nile transmission across Europe — evidence reviewed 2026-10-06
Read the original guidance
This is general information. Current local health guidance and professional assessment take priority for individual decisions.