Then after a 10 - 14 day incubation period, the infected mosquitoes can transmit the virus to humans and other animals through a bite. There is also no evidence that a person can get WNV from handling live or dead infected birds. However, it is recommended that bare-handed contact with dead animals, be avoided. Use gloves or double plastic bags to dispose of a dead animal or contact local health departments. West Nile virus has been found in humans, birds and other vertebrates.
Humans can contract the virus and, although rare, it can cause death.
Wild birds infected with WNV can die or become ill. American Kestrels and sparrows are two of the susceptible species. Cases of death in young domestic geese were reported in Israel. Dogs, cats and horses can also become infected by bites from infected mosquitos. There have been a few documented deaths of these animals, but so far it is believed that dogs and cats have a very low infection rate.