Who is at risk for getting West Nile infection?

Everyone can become infected with West Nile Virus although they may not have symptoms. People are more at risk for becoming infected with West Nile Virus when in areas where the virus is circulating in nature. In northern states, this is restricted to the summer months. In southern states transmission may occur year-round. The risk of West Nile encephalitis (the severe form of disease) is higher for persons 50 years of age and older. This is because it is harder for their body to fight off the disease. Very young children and people with compromised immune systems are also at increased risk.