Preventing Western Equine Encephalitis

Key points

  • Western equine encephalitis virus is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito.
  • There are no vaccines to prevent western equine encephalitis in people.
  • The best way to prevent infection is to protect yourself from mosquito bites.
Person sparying insect repellent on their arm

Prevention tips

Western equine encephalitis virus is spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes bite during the day and night. Anyone who spends time in a place where western equine encephalitis virus is circulating is at risk. Historically, the virus has been found in parts of North America, Central America, and South America. No human cases of western equine encephalitis have been reported in the United States since 1999.

There are no vaccines to prevent western equine encephalitis in people.

The best way to prevent western equine encephalitis is to protect yourself from mosquito bites.

  • Use insect repellent
  • Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants
  • Treat clothing and gear with 0.5% permethrin according to label instructions
  • Take steps to control mosquitoes indoors and outdoors
  • If traveling, choose lodging with air conditioning, screens on windows and doors, or use a mosquito net if you will be sleeping outdoors

Visit the CDC Mosquitoes website for more information about protecting yourself from mosquito bites.

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Content Source:
National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases (NCEZID)