West Nile fever: Difference between revisions
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[[file:WNV_life_cycle.jpg|left|thumb]] [[file:West_Nile_virus_transmission_cycle.jpg|left|thumb]] [[file:IgM.png|left|thumb]] [[ | [[file:WNV_life_cycle.jpg|left|thumb]] [[file:West_Nile_virus_transmission_cycle.jpg|left|thumb]] [[file:IgM.png|left|thumb]] [[image:Mosquito_Netting.jpg|left|thumb]] '''West Nile fever''' is an infectious disease caused by the [[West Nile virus]] (WNV). It is a member of the [[Flavivirus]] genus, which also includes other viruses such as [[dengue virus]], [[yellow fever virus]], and [[Zika virus]]. The disease is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected [[mosquito]], particularly species of the [[Culex]] genus. | ||
== Transmission == | == Transmission == | ||
West Nile virus is maintained in nature through a cycle involving transmission between birds and mosquitoes. [[Birds]] are the primary hosts of the virus, and mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds. Infected mosquitoes can then transmit the virus to humans and other animals through their bites. Human-to-human transmission is rare but can occur through [[blood transfusion]], [[organ transplantation]], and from mother to baby during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding. | West Nile virus is maintained in nature through a cycle involving transmission between birds and mosquitoes. [[Birds]] are the primary hosts of the virus, and mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds. Infected mosquitoes can then transmit the virus to humans and other animals through their bites. Human-to-human transmission is rare but can occur through [[blood transfusion]], [[organ transplantation]], and from mother to baby during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding. | ||
Latest revision as of 18:35, 12 April 2025
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| West Nile fever | |
|---|---|
| Synonyms | N/A |
| Pronounce | N/A |
| Specialty | N/A |
| Symptoms | Fever, headache, vomiting, rash, muscle weakness |
| Complications | Encephalitis, meningitis, flaccid paralysis |
| Onset | 2 to 14 days after exposure |
| Duration | Weeks to months |
| Types | N/A |
| Causes | West Nile virus spread by mosquito bites |
| Risks | Outdoor activity, mosquito exposure |
| Diagnosis | Serology, PCR |
| Differential diagnosis | Dengue fever, Zika virus, St. Louis encephalitis |
| Prevention | Mosquito control, insect repellent, protective clothing |
| Treatment | Supportive care |
| Medication | None specific |
| Prognosis | Generally good, but severe cases can be fatal |
| Frequency | Common in areas with mosquito populations |
| Deaths | Approximately 1% of those with severe symptoms |
West Nile fever is an infectious disease caused by the West Nile virus (WNV). It is a member of the Flavivirus genus, which also includes other viruses such as dengue virus, yellow fever virus, and Zika virus. The disease is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito, particularly species of the Culex genus.
Transmission[edit]
West Nile virus is maintained in nature through a cycle involving transmission between birds and mosquitoes. Birds are the primary hosts of the virus, and mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds. Infected mosquitoes can then transmit the virus to humans and other animals through their bites. Human-to-human transmission is rare but can occur through blood transfusion, organ transplantation, and from mother to baby during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding.
Symptoms[edit]
Most people (approximately 80%) infected with West Nile virus do not develop any symptoms. About 20% of infected individuals develop a mild illness known as West Nile fever. Symptoms of West Nile fever can include:
A small percentage of infected individuals (less than 1%) develop severe neurological illness, such as encephalitis or meningitis. Symptoms of severe disease can include:
- High fever
- Severe headache
- Stiff neck
- Disorientation or confusion
- Coma
- Tremors or muscle jerking
- Seizures
- Partial paralysis or muscle weakness
Diagnosis[edit]
Diagnosis of West Nile fever is typically based on a combination of clinical symptoms and laboratory tests. Serology tests, such as the detection of IgM antibodies in blood or cerebrospinal fluid, are commonly used to confirm infection. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests can also detect viral RNA in blood or other tissues.
Treatment[edit]
There is no specific antiviral treatment for West Nile fever. Management of the disease is primarily supportive and may include:
- Pain relievers to reduce fever and relieve symptoms
- Intravenous fluids for hydration
- Hospitalization for severe cases, particularly those with neurological involvement
Prevention[edit]
Preventive measures focus on reducing exposure to mosquito bites. These measures include:
- Using insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or other EPA-registered ingredients
- Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants
- Installing or repairing window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out
- Eliminating standing water around homes to reduce mosquito breeding sites
Epidemiology[edit]
West Nile virus is found in many parts of the world, including Africa, Europe, the Middle East, North America, and West Asia. The virus was first identified in the West Nile district of Uganda in 1937. Since then, it has spread to various regions, causing outbreaks of West Nile fever and severe neurological disease.
See also[edit]
References[edit]
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External links[edit]
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