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Who is at greatest risk of getting severely ill from West Nile virus?

People over the age of 50 and individuals with compromised immune systems have a higher chance of getting sick and are more likely to develop serious symptoms when infected with WNV. Being outside, especially at dawn or at dusk, increases your risk of being bitten by an infected mosquito. Take precautions (wear repellent) to avoid mosquito bites if you spend a lot of time outside.