Are you safe from the West Nile Virus?

West Nile Virus

The West Nile Virus is transmitted through mosquito bites and can cause a rash in horses, and mild symptoms in humans.

Find important statistic information on the West Nile Virus right here. Read this online guide to the symptoms of West Nile Virus, with great advice on natural remedies for mosquito bites.

West Nile Virus

West Nile Virus (WNV) is carried by mosquitoes that have been infected through a chain of sources, including birds.

The host mosquito can infect animals and humans with WNV through their bite. Luckily, WNV cannot be transferred from person to person.

West Nile Virus is a term used to describe the condition of meningitis and encephalitis, which are part of the Flaviviridae strain.

Encephalitis or meningitis causes inflammation in these areas of the body:

Brain
Spinal cord
Brain Lining

Inflammation within these areas is very dangerous and can cause hemorrhage, stroke, comas and death.

If you have been infected with West Nile Virus, remember that you cannot spread it through body fluids or contact with another person.

History

The history of the West Nile Virus (WNV) can be traced back to 1937, in the District of Uganda.

By the 1950’s, WNV became associated with causing meningoencephalitis, an inflammation of the spinal cord and brain lining.

WNV has spread all over the world, from the early days in the West Nile; to Egypt and Israel in the 50’s; France in the 60’s; and finally to North America in the late 90’s.

Today, the West Nile Virus has been reported in these areas of the world:

Africa
Europe
Middle East
Asia & Oceania
North America

Although rare, cases of WNV have occurred in Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Florida, as late as the year 2000.

Symptoms

West Nile Virus (WNV) usually affects people with weak immune systems, primarily the elderly.

In fact, most infected people experience no symptoms at all. Only 20% of those infected will develop a fever, while just 1% develop meningitis or encephalitis.

Here is a look at the flu-like symptoms of West Nile Virus:

Fever
Headache
Body ache

Symptoms of WNV usually appear 3-14 days after infection. The symptoms may also include rashes and swollen lymph glands, indicating that your body is fighting off the virus.

If the virus develops into a more serious condition, you may experience high fevers, light sensitivity, muscle weakness, stiff neck and confusion.

Although serious conditions are rare, WNV can affect your brain tissue, causing comas, permanent neurological damage, and even death.

The average death rate among those infected with WNV is 3-15%.

Treatment

Before you panic about being infected by the West Nile Virus (WNV), you should know that mosquito related illnesses are very uncommon.

Millions of people are bitten by millions of mosquitoes all over the world. The probability that you will be infected with WNV is very low.

Just because you have been bitten by a mosquito does not indicate that you need to be tested for WNV.

If you do develop flu-like symptoms after a mosquito bite, it’s best to consult with your doctor to rule out WNV. Recovery from the West Nile fever usually occurs without any major medical interference. You may be prescribed antibiotics.

In the rare case that WNV develops into encephalitis or meningitis, you will need immediate medical attention. Intravenous fluids, airway management, and ventilation support are among the practices used against WNV.

Unfortunately at this time, there is no vaccine to protect against WNV. The best protection against mosquito related viruses and bites are repellents, netting, and natural oils.

Browse the rest of our site for more information on mosquito related infections and ideas on preventing mosquito infestations.