West Nile virus in Tennessee.

WNV is a mosquito-borne virus that generally causes asymptomatic or mild illness in humans. Less than 1% of infected persons will develop severe disease. Because there is no specific treatment for the disease, mildly ill persons seldom require testing for WNV. Widespread media coverage may contribute to misperceptions about the incidence and severity of the disease, and many patients may benefit from reassurance and information which helps them understand the true risk of WNV compared with many more common but less sensational public health threats. For example, approximately 34,000 Americans die each year from firearms, and 20,000 die from influenza (a vaccine-preventable disease). Common-sense personal protective measures to avoid mosquito bites can substantially reduce an individuals' risk of acquiring WNV.