Latest news with #WestNile
CTV News
5 hours ago
- Health
- CTV News
What you need to know about West Nile, Rocky Mountain spotted fever and the measles
Video Infectious diseases expert Dr. Isaac Bogoch on what you need to know about West Nile, Rocky Mountain spotted fever and the Measles.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Philadelphia confirms first West Nile Virus mosquito pool; know all about the viral disease, symptoms and treatment
The Philadelphia Department of Public Health recently confirmed the first positive mosquito pool for the West Nile virus (WNV) in the city. The same was detected in a sample collected near Pennypack Park in Northeast Philadelphia. 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. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like AirSense 11 – Smart tech for deep sleep ResMed Buy Now Undo 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
NBC News
4 days ago
- Health
- NBC News
Man in Colorado hospitalized with West Nile virus as more cases reported
A man in Colorado was hospitalized with a severe case of the West Nile virus after hosting an anniversary BBQ in their backyard. This comes as more cases are being reported in at least 16 states. NBC News' Priya Sridhar has more on potential symptoms.
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Yahoo
Fight over lottery ticket ends in felony charges for 2 Springfield men
A fight over a lottery ticket ended in an arrest and felony charges for two Springfield men on Monday. At about 1:40 p.m. on July 14, Ludlow Police responded to Gamache Drive for reports of two men, both in their 40s, that appeared to be fighting over a lottery ticket. One of the men was armed with a knife, police said. One of the men had a cut on his arm and was treated at the scene by Ludlow Fire Department Paramedics. There were no other injuries. During a preliminary search of the two men, officers found crack cocaine. The two men were arrested without incident. They were charged with disorderly conduct, assault with a dangerous weapon, which is a felony, and possession of a class B substance. One of the men was also charged with carrying of a dangerous weapon, which is also a felony. One of the men was arraigned in Palmer District Court and pleaded not guilty. He was released on $250 cash bail on Tuesday. The other failed to appear for the arraignment scheduled for Wednesday. More News West Nile virus found in Central Mass. goat, raising risk of infection Chicopee native announces candidacy for at-large city councilor position Woman's body pulled from Fort Point Channel in Boston Mass. beach closures: Here are the beaches closed on Thursday, July 17 GoFundMe campaigns set up for family of Fall River man killed in police shooting Read the original article on MassLive.
Global News
4 days ago
- Health
- Global News
West Nile virus to spread to remote areas of Quebec due to climate change, study says
Quebec public health officials are warning of another potential consequence of climate change. A recent study by the Public Health Institute suggests warmer temperatures could lead to a surge in West Nile virus cases and that it could spread to more remote regions of the province for the first time. Get weekly health news Receive the latest medical news and health information delivered to you every Sunday. Sign up for weekly health newsletter Sign Up By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy The virus is often found in Quebec's larger city centres, especially around Montreal. But by 2080, the virus could migrate, going as for as Gaspé and even north to the Abitibi region. As Global's Franca Mignacca reports, warming weather coupled with increased precipitation is expected to increase its spread, as well as other mosquito and tick-born diseases. For the full story, watch the video above.
