West Nile Virus and Squirrels

Q. Can squirrels infected with West Nile Virus transmit the virus to humans?

A. A small number of squirrels have tested positive for the West Nile Virus. There is no evidence that people could become infected with the West Nile Virus by being near an infected squirrel or in the yard with a dead one. However, the presence of an infected squirrel does mean that there could be infected mosquitoes nearby, and people should use protective clothing and repellent, and avoid maintaining mosquito-breeding sites on their property.