A viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes that may cause fever, neurological symptoms, or no symptoms.
For the active phase, medical records confirming a diagnosis of West Nile virus infection and documenting ongoing symptoms are the core evidence. Once the active infection has resolved, the focus shifts entirely to residuals. Records showing physical symptoms — such as muscle weakness, paralysis, or tremors — functional limitations in movement or coordination, or cognitive problems like memory loss or difficulty concentrating would support rating those residuals under the appropriate body system. Neurological exam findings, imaging, and specialist notes are particularly relevant because West Nile virus is known to affect the nervous system. Statements from you or people who know you describing how these lasting symptoms affect your work and daily life can also help document the severity of each residual condition. The rating each residual receives depends on the criteria for that specific body system condition.
Conditions that are often caused or made worse by this one. If you have any of these, they may be claimable as secondary service connection.
