Certification in Infection Prevention and Control (CIC) Practice Exam

The West Nile virus is primarily transmitted through vectors, which are typically mosquitoes. This transmission occurs when a mosquito bites an infected bird, acquires the virus, and then transmits it to humans or other animals through subsequent bites. Understanding how West Nile virus spreads highlights the significance of vector control in infection prevention strategies.

In contrast to direct contact, which involves transmission through physical touch or exchange of bodily fluids, and indirect contact, which involves surfaces or objects (fomites), the vector-based transmission underscores the role of living organisms in spreading pathogens. Airborne routes pertain to the spread of diseases through aerosols or droplets, typically involving respiratory pathogens, and are not applicable to the West Nile virus, which does not spread through the air. Hence, recognizing the vector as the primary means of transmission is crucial for effective management and control of this virus.