It is not transmitted directly to people from animals, birds, or other people. However, people who directly handle sick animals should take precautions, such as wearing gloves to protect themselves . No vaccine currently exists to protect people or animals from WNV infection. In addition, a surveillance program has been set up to look for West Nile virus in mosquitoes and monitor for bird deaths and suspicious illness in people and horses to identify areas where West Nile virus is present before it becomes a threat to humans. As in people, there are no specific treatments for WNV infection in animals.
Treatment is primarily supportive to lessen the severity of the clinical signs.
You can reduce the risk of West Nile virus infection in animals by minimizing exposure to infected mosquitoes. Connecticut has developed and implemented a statewide WNV response plan that includes surveillance, control strategies, and dissemination of information. Reducing mosquito-breeding habitats in each community can greatly lower the potential for West Nile virus to become a significant threat to humans and domestic animals. Call your local health department to report dead birds. You can find the number in the blue pages of your local phone book.