Summer is here, and so are mosquitoes that carry West Nile virus (WNV). In addition to preventing annoying, itchy bites, limiting exposure to mosquitoes can also reduce the risk of West Nile virus infection.
Prevalence
West Nile virus has become the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the United States since its introduction in 1999, according to CDC (CDC). The number of West Nile virus cases has fluctuated over the years, peaking at 9,862 infections in 2003, and numbers have changed since then. The number of cases per year has remained relatively stable in recent years, between 2,000 and 2,600, but increased slightly to 2,911 in 2021, followed by 1,126 infections in 2022. This year, the CDC has reported new cases across the country, including in Arizona, Georgia, Illinois, Louisiana, Nebraska, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Wyoming. The rise in cases has raised concerns about the spread of the mosquito-borne disease over the summer.
spread
The main mode of transmission of West Nile virus is through the bite of infected Culex mosquitoes, which acquire the virus by feeding on infected birds, such as CDC’s website. The virus is not spread by physical contact, coughing, sneezing or touching infected animals. Humans and horses are the occasional hosts of the virus, while birds are the main hosts in the transmission cycle. In rare cases, WNV transmission can occur through organ transplantation, blood transfusion, or mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
signs and symptoms
About 80% of people infected with WNV have no symptoms, According to the CDCA febrile illness characterized by fever, body aches, headache, arthralgia, diarrhea, rash, and vomiting may occur in about 20% of people. While these symptoms usually resolve on their own, some people may experience lingering weakness and fatigue. In rare cases (about 1 in 150 cases), the virus can cause serious neurological disorders such as encephalitis or meningitis. Symptoms of serious illness include headache, stiff neck, high fever, disorientation, vision loss, muscle weakness, convulsions, tremors, coma, or paralysis. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop personality changes or weakness in your legs and arms, as these could signal serious complications.
diagnosis and treatment
Individuals who suspect they may have WNV infection should consult a healthcare provider for evaluation because CDC Recommendations. Diagnosis can be based on symptoms, recent exposure to mosquitoes, and laboratory tests of blood or spinal fluid. Currently, there are no specific antiviral drugs or vaccines against WNV. Treatment focuses on controlling symptoms with over-the-counter pain relievers, rest, and proper hydration.Severe cases may require hospitalization for supportive care, it said Fox Digital News.
Published by Medicaldaily.com