Can humans catch west nile encephalitis?

Yes: Absolutely, in recent years west nile virus has been in epidemic mode sweeping from the east coast of the us to the west. Encephalitis is present only in severe cases.

Mosquito bites: West nile virus must be produced in high numbers before being passed through mosquitoes. Birds are far and away the most frequent carriers. Robins look like they might be responsible for spread all over the country. Mosquitoes have to feed on the infected robin and then pass the virus on to human beings through a bite.