West Nile virus
nounUK /ˌwest naɪl ˈvaɪrəs/
US /ˌwest naɪl ˈvaɪrəs/
A tiny germ that mosquitoes can pass to people and birds and that can make you feel sick.
The doctor said the fever was caused by the West Nile virus spread by a mosquito bite.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A virus of the genus Flavivirus first identified in the West Nile district of Uganda in 1937.
Scientists studying flaviviruses often include West Nile virus in their research.
3. A mosquito-borne illness that can cause mild flu-like symptoms or, rarely, serious brain inflammation.
Most people infected with West Nile virus have no symptoms at all.
4. A public health concern that spreads through bird populations and mosquito bites during warm months.
Cities spray for mosquitoes in summer to reduce the risk of West Nile virus.