West Nile Virus Symptoms, Prevention
Mosquito Bite Illnesses on the Rise in the United States
Sep 14, 2009
Recently, West Nile virus cases have been on the rise. In the Northwest Indiana Times article, “West Nile Virus Found in Mosquitoes in 25 Indiana Counties,” Sarah Tompkins notes the recent upward trend in infected mosquitoes in the state of Indiana. A disease that has not been getting much coverage lately is now becoming a new concern. These tips will help individuals and families identify with the symptoms of West Nile virus as well as a few ideas on how to prevent it.
West Nile Virus – What is it and who is at Risk
West Nile virus is carried by mosquitoes and transmitted to humans via a mosquito bite. Nearly 12,000 infected individuals have had a resulting severe illness from the virus, with over 1,100 fatalities reported nationwide. The highest incidence rates in 2008 were in the states of Kansas, Nebraska, and South Dakota, although nearly every state had some incidences reported.
According to the CDC, why infection occurs in some people, and not in others, is currently unknown, although people who have weaker immune symptoms or individuals who have received an organ transplant do fall into a higher risk category.
Symptoms of West Nile Fever and Disease
According to Tompkins, the virus can lead to West Nile fever (occurrence rate is about 20% of those infected with the virus) which include symptoms such as a fever, swollen lymph glands, fatigue, body aches, headache, and skin rashes.
The more severe form of the virus, West Nile Disease, is seen in about one in every 150 cases. These symptoms are much more severe, including “headache, high fever, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, and paralysis,” as stated on the CDC website.
The CDC says that fatigue and body aches can be ongoing for weeks or even months, and the virus can lead to much more serious illnesses such as meningitis and encephalitis. Death, although rare, can be the worst complication of West Nile virus.
Prevention of West Nile Virus Fever and Disease
Both the CDC and Tompkins stress the importance of using a mosquito repellent that is effective in the prevention of the West Nile virus. Four types of repellent have been evaluated and recommended by the CDC: Plant based oil of lemon eucalyptus, DEET, IR3535 and picaridin. The repellent should be worn at all times while outside, on skin and clothes.
It is also reported that the virus is transmitted more during the late hours of the day through the night. Avoiding exposure during these higher peak times may also decrease the chances of contracting the virus.
Tompkins also recommends certain steps that can be taken around the home to reduce mosquito attraction. Removing articles that encourage standing water, such as old tires and empty containers around the yard, as well as keeping grass trimmed short can help avoid mosquito attraction.
Treatment and Resources
The sooner West Nile fever and West Nile disease are diagnosed, the sooner treatment can begin. Early treatment is the key to a quicker recovery. Any symptoms of West Nile virus should be reported to a health care physician immediately. More information on West Nile virus and other diseases, such as MRSA and the H1N1 swine flu can be found at the Center for Disease Control website.
BNC101
Sources: Center for Disease Control, Northwest Indiana Times
 |
