Dr. Anthony Fauci, the former chief White House medical adviser, was hospitalized for six days after contracting West Nile virus, a mosquito-borne illness. At 83 years old, Fauci experienced significant symptoms including fever and chills before testing positive for the virus, describing it as the sickest he has ever felt. He is now recovering at home and expects a full recovery, though it may take several weeks. West Nile virus typically presents mild symptoms in about 80% of cases, but severe complications can occur in about 1 in 150 infections, with no specific treatments or vaccines available. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 216 cases across 33 states this year, emphasizing the importance of mosquito bite prevention. Fauci, who retired in December 2022 after a distinguished career, became a public figure during the COVID-19 pandemic, facing both praise and criticism for his guidance.