Philadelphia confirms first West Nile Virus mosquito pool; know all about the viral disease, symptoms and treatment
While no case of human beings being affected has been yet reported, here's taking a look at the virus, disease, and symptoms...
What is West Nile Virus
West Nile virus is a viral disease that is transmitted mainly by the bites of infected mosquitoes. This virus can cause illnesses in people, and severe health issues (in rare cases). Let's learn more...
Understanding West Nile Virus
West Nile virus is a viral disease that is transmitted by mosquitoes. The virus is a member of the Flaviviruses, which also includes Zika, dengue and yellow fever viruses. The virus was first identified in the West Nile district of Uganda in 1937, and has since spread to other parts of the world including Africa, Europe, Middle East, North America and Asia. The main hosts of the virus are birds and mosquitoes, which feed on infected birds,
who
can then transmit the disease to humans and other animals like horses.
How Do People Get Infected
Most people get infected with West Nile virus through the bites of infected mosquitoes.
The virus in the mosquitoes is acquired by feeding on birds that already carry the virus.
The virus can also spread through blood transfusions, organ transplants and from mother to child during pregnancy, but these cases remain rare.
When and Where Is West Nile Most Common
The West Nile virus infections are mostly encountered during the mosquito season that runs from summer to early fall.
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The cases are reported throughout the year in the warmer areas.
West Nile Virus Symptoms
Most People Have No Symptoms
About 80 percent of people who are infected with West Nile virus, do not have any symptoms. Most people will not even know they were infected.
Mild Symptoms
About 20 percent of the infected people (1 in 5) will develop mild symptoms of West Nile fever that are known as 'West Nile fever.' These can include:
Fever
Headache
Body aches or muscle pains
Tiredness or weakness
Skin rash on the trunk (upper body)
Swollen lymph glands
Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
Most of the mild cases recover on their own, and do not need any further medical intervention.
These symptoms usually start between 3 and 14 days after the mosquito bite, and can last for several weeks.
Severe (Serious) Symptoms
Less than 1 in 150 infected people (under 1%) will get severe symptoms. The severe symptoms are a result of the virus entering the brain and nervous system, which results in serious conditions like meningitis (swelling of the lining of the brain and spinal cord) or encephalitis (swelling of the brain).
Serious signs include:
High fever
Severe headache
Stiff neck
Disorientation or confusion
Muscle weakness or paralysis
Tremors or convulsions (shaking)
Loss of consciousness or coma
Sensitivity to light
Seizures
The risk of severe illness is high for the elderly people, people with weakened immune systems and those with chronic diseases.
In rare cases, the infection can lead to permanent damage to the nervous or brain systems or can be deadly.
Long-Term Effects
The people who have had severe infections may experience some effects for months or even years, such as:
Persistent tiredness or weakness
Memory problems
Headaches
Trouble with balance
How Is West Nile Virus Diagnosed
Doctors usually diagnose West Nile virus by:
Looking at symptoms
Asking about recent mosquito exposure
Doing blood tests or testing fluid from the spinal cord to check for the virus or antibodies
Treatment for West Nile Virus
No Specific Medicine
There is no cure or specific treatment for West Nile virus.
Antibiotics are not used since the disease is caused by a virus not bacteria.
For mild cases: Most people with mild symptoms will recover on their own. Doctors suggest:
Rest
Drinking plenty of fluids
Taking over-the-counter pain relievers for fever and aches, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
For severe cases: People who have serious symptoms usually have to go to the hospital for supportive care while their body is fighting off the virus.
This can include…Patients receive IV (intravenous) fluids for dehydration prevention purposes.
Prevention
Since a cure does not exist, it is crucial to minimise mosquito bites. This can be done by:
Applying mosquito repellents that contain DEET or other authorized ingredients.
Wear full sleeved clothes and pants from dusk to dawn, because mosquitoes become most active during these times.
The application of screens to windows and doors, functions as an effective barrier against mosquito entry.
You must eliminate all standing water from flower pots, buckets and tires throughout your home, since it enables mosquito breeding.
Sources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Johns Hopkins Medicine
World Health Organization (WHO)
Cleveland Clinic
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