West Nile Virus (WNV) 🦟🦉
What is it?
West Nile Virus is a virus primarily spread to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes 🦟. It is part of the flavivirus family and is found mainly in Africa, Europe, the Middle East, North America, and West Asia.
How is it Transmitted?
- Mosquitoes become infected by feeding on infected birds 🦅
- Infected mosquitoes then bite humans or animals, transmitting the virus
- Rarely, it can be transmitted through blood transfusions, organ transplants, or from mother to baby during pregnancy
Symptoms 😷
Most people infected with WNV have no symptoms or mild symptoms like:
- Fever 🌡️
- Headache 🤕
- Body aches and fatigue 🛌
- Skin rash 🩸
- Swollen lymph nodes
In rare cases (about 1 in 150), serious neurological illness develops:
- Encephalitis (brain inflammation) or meningitis (inflammation of the brain and spinal cord) 🧠
- Confusion, muscle weakness, paralysis
- Seizures
- Coma (severe cases)
Who is at Risk?
- Older adults (over 60 years)
- People with weakened immune systems
- Anyone exposed to mosquitoes in areas where WNV is common
Diagnosis
- Blood tests to detect antibodies or viral RNA
- Sometimes cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis if neurological symptoms are present
Treatment
- No specific antiviral treatment available
- Supportive care including hospitalization, fluids, and pain management
- Severe cases may require intensive care
Prevention 🛡️
- Use insect repellents containing DEET or picaridin 🧴
- Wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors, especially at dawn and dusk
- Use mosquito nets and screens on windows and doors
- Eliminate standing water where mosquitoes breed (e.g., bird baths, flower pots) 💧