Dr. Fauci Recovering from West Nile Virus After Hospitalization: What You Need to Know

Dr. Anthony Fauci, who was once the leading U.S. infectious disease expert, recently spent time in the hospital due to a West Nile virus infection. According to a spokesperson, Fauci is now recovering at home and is expected to fully recover.

West Nile virus is typically spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. While many people don’t show symptoms, about 1 in 5 may experience fever, headaches, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea, or a rash. In rare cases, around 1 in 150, the virus can lead to serious, sometimes life-threatening illness.

Dr. Jonathan LaPook, a chief medical correspondent for news, shared on social media that he spoke with Fauci on Saturday. Fauci mentioned that he likely got infected from a mosquito bite in his backyard. He was hospitalized about ten days ago after experiencing fever, chills, and severe fatigue, and spent a week in the hospital.

Fauci became a familiar face during the COVID-19 pandemic as the chief White House medical adviser, a role that earned him both trust and criticism. Although he left the government in 2022, he recently testified before Congress as part of an investigation into the origins of COVID-19 and the U.S. response to the pandemic.

Last summer, Fauci joined Georgetown University as a distinguished professor.

Currently, there are no vaccines or specific treatments for West Nile virus. The best way to prevent it is by avoiding mosquito bites. As of August 20, the CDC reported 216 cases across 33 states this year.