There are no reliable West Nile statistics available on the number of cases that occur worldwide; however, in 2003, 9,862 human cases of West Nile virus were reported in the United States. As for statistics on deaths caused by the West Nile virus, death rates range from 3 percent to 15 percent, and are highest among the elderly. Less than 1 percent of people who become infected with West Nile virus will develop severe illness.

• In 2006, there were 4,261 human cases of West Nile virus disease reported, including 174 deaths.

 

• In 2005, there were 3,000 human cases of West Nile virus disease reported, including 119 deaths.

 

• In 2004, there were 2,539 human cases of West Nile virus disease reported, including 100 deaths.

 

• In 2003, there were 9,862 human cases of West Nile virus disease reported, including 264 deaths.
   
• In 2002, there were 4,156 human cases of West Nile virus disease, including 284 deaths.
   
• In 2001, there were 66 human cases of severe disease and 9 deaths.
   
• In 2000, 21 cases were reported, including 2 deaths in the New York City area. In 1999, 62 cases of severe disease, including 7 deaths, occurred in the New York area.