Why get tested?
To determine the cause of viral meningitis or encephalitis that occurs during the summer season; to detect the presence of West Nile Virus (WNV) and to track its spread in the community and across the United States

When to get tested?
When a patient has symptoms suggesting WNV such as headache, fever, stiff neck, and muscular weakness and a diagnosis of encephalitis and/or meningitis; also used as a screen for WNV in donated units of blood

Sample required?
Cerebrospinal fluid collected from a spinal tap and/or a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm