West Nile Virus: A Silent Killer
West Nile Virus (WNV) is not the same problem it once was in global health, but to this day, cases get reported internationally every year. Infected mosquitoes can sometimes carry West Nile, a virus that might just seee an annoyance but is actually responsible for severe—and occasionally lethal—disease. This article will discuss what WNV is, how it can be transmissible among humans and animals alike, the symptoms which an affected person might experience, and talk about the impact of this lethal killer on individuals as well as communities.
Transmission of West Nile Virus
WNV is mostly spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. Its proximity with birds allows its avian residents to constantly infect mosquitoes, largely Culex species. Birds are the main hosts of WNV, but humans and horses can be infected through mosquito bites.
West Nile Virus Symptoms
Most people infected with WNV will not have any symptoms; however, about 1 in 5 may develop mild flu-like symptoms. A significant proportion of affected individuals develop more severe symptoms.
- Neurologic complications: Meningitis—Inflammation of the lining surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Encephalitis—inflammation of the brain.
- Temperature: Typically present with fever, possibly chills and aches in the body.
- Headache: An unrelenting headache is also a common symptom of WNV infection.
- Neck stiffness: This could be a symptom of Meningitis.
- Confusion: Trouble thinking or concentrating.
- Vomiting: Sometimes, a person can experience nausea and vomiting.
- Diarrhea: Might present with diarrhea in many instances.
- Rash: A rash could develop on the chest or other areas of your body.
Horrific Consequences of West Nile Virus
The majority of people who contract WNV will recover fully and not have any long-term side effects, but the remainder are unlucky enough to develop severe neurologic disease that can be devastating. Such complications can consist of:
- Paralysis: Paralyzed limbs.
- Muscle weakness: Loss of strength in muscles.
- Vision problems: Blurred or double vision.
- Hearing loss: Loss of the ability to hear.
- Cognitive impairment: Memory problems, thinking difficulties, or learning disabilities.
- Seizures: Uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain.
WNV can be fatal in the most severe cases. Mortality rates of WNV infections differ and are influenced by age, comorbidities, and the level of severity. READ MORE
What are the Risk Factors for West Nile Virus?
Although anyone can get infected with WNV, some people are at a higher risk, including:
- Age: Elderly individuals are one of the most at-risk groups for developing severe manifestations of WNV.
- Underlying health conditions: People with a weakened immune system or certain other medical problems, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, are more likely to develop severe WNV disease.
- Vector: Epizootic WNV and associated human cases occur in areas where there are high mosquito populations, e.g., next to a stagnant water body or amidst thick vegetation.
- Outdoor activities: Being outdoors, especially during peak mosquito feeding times, can increase your risk of WNV due to exposure.
How to Prevent and Control West Nile Virus
At present, there is no human vaccine for WNV; however, the likelihood of infection can be minimized by taking some precautionary steps:
- Mosquito control: Do not have containers with stagnant water in your yard, because they attract mosquitoes. Apply insect repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, or other effective ingredients.
- Wear protective clothing: When outside, wear long sleeves and pants with socks to cover up your skin.
- Indoors: Stay indoors during peak mosquito activity hours, typically from dusk to dawn.
- Tulle over doors and windows: Add screens on your windows or use mosquito netting.
- Vaccination of horses: If horses are vaccinated for WNV, they cannot be affected by the disease.
West Nile Virus continues to be a problem of public health significance, but with knowledge about the virus, its mode of transmission, and how it can be prevented, we all stand better chances as individuals or communities at reducing our risk and blunting this dreaded agent (silent killer).
