New virus : West Nile fever is spread by mosquitoes of the Culex species. According to the World Health Organization, it can cause a fatal neurological disease in humans, but most infected will show no symptoms. It is mainly spread through the bite of infected mosquitoes.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), West Nile virus (WNV) is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the United States. The WHO says that it is caused by transmission between birds and mosquitoes. Humans, horses and other mammals can be infected by this disease.
How does this virus spread
This infection is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito or by eating a bird. The WHO says that WNV can also be spread by contact with other infected animals, their blood or tissues.
This disease is also likely to occur in transplacental (from pregnant to child). However, so far no clues have been found for the occurrence of this disease through direct contact. But there is a possibility of WNV transmission in lab workers who test the blood of infected people.
What are the symptoms?
According to the WHO, symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue and body aches, nausea, vomiting, sometimes a skin rash (on the trunk of the body) and swollen lymph nodes. Symptoms of more severe illness include headache, high fever, stiff neck, numbness, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, and paralysis. Usually such symptoms can be seen for 3 to 14 days.
Who is more at risk
This disease can happen to anyone at any age. Those who have low immunity, the severity may be more visible. People over the age of 50 are at higher risk.
Disease prevention measures
1. To avoid West Nile virus (WNV) protection from mosquitoes is essential.
2. Do not allow stagnation of water etc.
3. Use replacements where mosquitoes are more in the grass, etc.
4. Use mosquito nets.
5. Avoid consumption of chicken or other birds.