While people age 50 and over account for most severe cases, there are documented cases of WNV in infants and children. Therefore anyone exposed to WNV is potentially at risk. The most critical risk factor at any age is exposure to infected mosquitoes. The CDC provides the following information about the median age for development of West Nile illness following infection, based on data from 2002 and 2003:
Year |
Fever |
Meningitis |
Encephalitis (with or without meningitis) |
Death |
2002 |
49 |
46 |
64 |
78 |
2003 |
45 |
46 |
62 |
80 |
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Occupational or other exposure
Those who are exposed to infected mosquitoes are at risk. This includes anyone in a WNV area who is insufficiently protected from insect bites, especially people working outside or spending recreational time outside. Workers at risk of WNV exposure include those working outdoors when mosquitoes are actively biting—farmers, foresters, landscapers, groundskeepers and gardeners, painters, roofers, pavers, construction workers, laborers, mechanics, and other outdoor workers. Health care providers are at risk from percutaneous infection, such as from needlestick injuries.
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