West nile virus infection: symptoms, causes, drugs, etc. • hello healthy

Definition

What is West Nile virus?

West Nile virus infection is an infection that originates from the bite of a virus-carrying mosquito. Most people who are infected with the virus do not cause symptoms, or may develop mild symptoms such as fever and headache.

However, in rare cases, West Nile virus infection is the culprit behind serious diseases of the brain, such as encephalitis and infection of the lining of the brain (meningitis).

Data from the United States Centers for Disease Control (CDC) show that about 1 in 5 people infected with the virus will develop fever and other symptoms. Plus, about 1 in 150 people who are infected with the virus can develop disease or other complications that are more severe due to this virus.

How common is this disease?

According to the Mayo Clinic website, West Nile virus is an infectious disease that was first discovered in the United States in 1999, then spread to Asia, Africa, Europe and the Middle East today.

Not everyone who is bitten by a mosquito will be infected by this virus. Only mosquitoes that carry this virus can transmit it to other humans. You are more likely to get the disease if you travel to an area with a high incidence of West Nile disease.

Signs and symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of West Nile virus infection?

Most people who are infected with West Nile virus don't show any symptoms. However, about 1 in 5 people who are infected will experience the following symptoms:

• Headache
• Fever
• Joint pain
• Pain in several parts of the body
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Skin rash

The above symptoms usually resolve on their own. The patient only needs medication to relieve the symptoms.

There may be other symptoms that are not listed. If you have questions about the signs of disease, consult a doctor.

When should I see a doctor?

In 1 in 150 people who are infected, it is possible for more severe symptoms to develop, such as:

• High fever
• Headache
• Stiff neck
• Difficulty speaking normally
• Disoriented or absent-minded
• Coma
• Tremor
• Seizures
• Weakened muscles
• Loss of sight
• Lame

It is likely that these symptoms occur because West Nile virus infection has affected the brain and central nervous system, so that the patient is at risk for complications in the form of encephalitis and meningitis.

Complications are more likely to occur in patients aged 60 years and over, as well as patients who have certain diseases such as cancer, diabetes, hypertension, or kidney disease.

If you are among the people who are at risk and experience the symptoms above, do not delay the time to see a doctor.

Cause

What causes West Nile virus infection?

West Nile virus is the most common infection transmitted through mosquito bites. This virus belongs to the flavivirus family and is found frequently in many places in nature, and infects many birds and certain mammals.

Mosquitoes can become infected when they suck blood from birds, other mammals, or humans who are infected with the virus. Then, the mosquito will transmit the virus when it bites humans or other animals.

In very rare cases, this virus can spread via:

• Laboratory exposure
• Blood transfusions and organ transplants
• Pregnant women during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding their babies

This virus cannot be transmitted through direct or indirect contact between humans. So, you will not be infected even if you are close to someone who is infected.

You also will not catch the West Nile virus after touching an infected animal, whether it is live or dead. Eating meat from infected animals will not cause you to develop this disease either.

Risk factors

What increases my risk of getting this disease?

Certain factors may increase your risk of West Nile virus infection:

• Geographical area: West Nile virus is most prevalent in the United States, but has recently also been in the central and southern western regions where the number of cases has been increasing.
• Time outdoors: If you work or spend time outside the home, you are at risk of being exposed to the virus.

Having no risk factors does not mean you will not get this disease. Risk factors are conditions that increase your chances of developing a disease.

Medicines & Medicines

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

What tests are done to diagnose this disease?

The doctor makes a diagnosis from a physical exam and asks about your medical history. To get a more accurate diagnosis, especially if your doctor suspects encephalitis or meningitis, you may need to undergo some additional tests:

• Blood test
  A blood test is a test that can show whether you have the West Nile virus by looking at the antibody levels in your body. Antibodies are proteins that the body produces when attacked by a bacterial or viral infection.

• Spinal tap or lumbar puncture
  Lumbar puncture is a method of examination by taking cerebrospinal fluid in the brain and spinal cord. The doctor will check for an increase in white blood cells in the cerebrospinal fluid, which indicates your body's immune system is fighting a viral infection.

• Brain examination
  In some cases, doctors will also do electroencephalography (EEG), a procedure that measures your brain activity.

What are my treatment options for West Nile virus infection?

Treatment is usually unnecessary, but a doctor may prescribe medication to relieve symptoms.

Over-the-counter medications can cure headaches and muscle aches. For more serious infections, hospitalization is required. Most people get better within 3-6 days, but those with a brain infection may take a few weeks.

Home remedies

What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can be taken to prevent West Nile virus infection?

Here are simple ways you can follow to prevent getting West Nile virus infection:

• Avoid doing activities outside when mosquitoes are active, especially at sunrise and sunset.
• Wear long sleeves and trousers when you are outdoors.
• Apply a mosquito repellent lotion to avoid mosquito bites
• Drain water reservoirs and bury used items to prevent mosquito nests from forming.

If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.