West Nile virus is generally transmitted to humans and animals through the bites of infected mosquitoes. Mosquitoes become infected and transmit the virus after biting infected birds. Most people infected with the virus develop little or no signs or symptoms, such as fever and mild headache. However, some people develop a life-threatening disease that involves inflammation of the spinal cord or brain. In this article we will talk about the West Nile virus symptoms and their treatment.
Mild signs and symptoms of West Nile virus infection usually go away on their own. Severe signs and symptoms – such assevere headache, fever, disorientation or sudden weakness – but must be treated immediately. Contact with mosquitoes in areas where West Nile virus is present increases the risk of becoming infected. You can reduce your risk by protecting yourself from mosquitoes. Use mosquito repellent and wear clothing that covers your skin.
What are the mild signs of infection
About 20% of people develop a mild infection called West Nile fever. Common signs and symptoms include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Physical pain
- Vomit
- Diarrhea
- fatigue
- rash
Severe West Nile virus symptoms
In less than 1% of those infected, the virus causes a severe infection of the nervous system. This can lead to inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) or the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord (meningitis). Signs and symptoms of a neurological infection include:
- High fever
- Severe headache
- Stiff neck
- Disorientation or confusion
- Tremors or muscle twitches
- Seizures
- Partial paralysis or muscle weakness
- Loss of vision
- Numbness
How long do West Nile virus symptoms last?
The signs and symptoms of West Nile fever usually only last a few days. However, symptoms of encephalitis or meningitis can last for weeks or months. Certain neurological effects, such as: B. muscle weakness, can be permanent.
When should you see a doctor
As mentioned, mild symptoms of West Nile fever usually go away on their own. Seek immediate medical attention if you have signs or symptoms of a serious infection, such as severe headache, stiff neck, disorientation, or confusion. A severe infection usually requires hospitalization.
When do the infections occur?
Most West Nile virus infections occurwarm weatheron, i.e. from June to September, when the mosquitoes are active. The incubation period – the period between the bite of an infected mosquito and the appearance of signs and symptoms of illness – is usually four to ten days.
West Nile Virus Symptoms: Risk Factors
Even if you are infected, the risk of severe illness from West Nile virus is very low and most people who become ill recover completely. The likelihood of developing a serious or fatal infection depends on age. The older you are, the higher your risk. Certain diseases such as cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), and kidney disease increase your risk. The same applies to patients who have undergone an organ transplant.
Other possible transmission routes
In a few cases, West Nile virus could also spread through other routes, such as organ transplants and blood transfusions. However, blood donors are screened for the virus, so the risk of infection from blood transfusions is greatly reduced.
There are also reports of transmission of the virus from mother to child during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or of exposure to the virus in a laboratory, but these cases are rare.
Measures to prevent the infection
The best prevention against the virus and other mosquito-borne diseases is to avoid contact withto avoid mosquitoesand removing standing water in which mosquitoes breed.
- Clear clogged gutters.
- Drain unused swimming pools or remove standing water on pool covers.
- Change the water in birdbaths and pet bowls regularly.
- Remove old tires or unused containers that contain water and could serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
- Install or repair fly screens on windows and doors.
How to reduce mosquito exposure:
- Avoid unnecessary outdoor activities when mosquitoes are most common, such as: B. at dawn and dusk and in the early evening.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors.
- Apply a mosquito repellent to your skin and clothing. Choose the concentration according to the duration of protection you need. The higher the concentration of the active ingredient, the longer the agent works. Follow the instructions on the packaging, paying particular attention to the recommendations for use in children.
- Cover your child's stroller or playpen with a mosquito net when outside.
Send in captured mosquitoes
The Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture has a fewMosquito research projectswas brought into being because mosquito-borne diseases have become increasingly important in recent years. Interested citizens can send in captured mosquitoes.
