Early West Nile activity may point to a once-in-a-decade spike in infections. Here's what survivors want you to know

Brittany Yeager, John Brittingham, and Jule Hamrick are individuals who have been severely affected by the West Nile virus. Despite being a relatively rare disease, with around 2,500 reported cases each year in the US, experts believe that the actual number of infections is much higher due to many cases going unreported. The virus can cause mild flu-like symptoms or, in more severe cases, invade the brain and nervous system, leading to long-term complications or even death. As the virus continues to pose a threat, there is a need for better vaccines and treatments to combat it. Mosquito bite prevention remains the best defense against West Nile virus.