Preventing West Nile

Key points

  • There are no vaccines or medicines to prevent West Nile virus disease (West Nile).
  • The best way to prevent West Nile is to protect yourself from mosquito bites.
Person spraying insect repellent

Prevention tips

West Nile virus is spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes bite during the day and night.

There are no vaccines or medicines to prevent West Nile.

The best way to prevent West Nile is to protect yourself from mosquito bites.

  • Use insect repellent
  • Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants
  • Treat clothing and gear
  • Take steps to control mosquitoes indoors and outdoors

Additional information about protecting yourself from mosquito bites is available on the CDC Mosquitoes website.