Mosquito bites transmit West Nile virus to other mammals, including humans. It usually spreads during the summer and winter, although it can be transmitted year-round in warm climates. West Nile is usually not life-threatening, and some people may not even know they have it.
Common symptoms of West Nile virus include:
These symptoms occur in people with less severe forms of the disease. About 80% of people who are infected with West Nile virus will never know they had it at all. In rare cases, people may experience more severe symptoms, including headache, coma, confusion, tremors, seizures, vision loss, paralysis, and numbness. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, seeking medical attention immediately is essential.
Humans contract the West Nile virus when a female mosquito carrying the disease bites them. Mosquitoes get the virus from biting infected birds. West Nile virus cannot spread from human to human. However, it can be spread in rare cases via blood transfusion or organ transplant, although blood and organs are screened for potential infections.
Risk factors for West Nile virus include diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer, receiving an organ transplant, getting a mosquito bite in the summer, and kidney disease.
If your doctor suspects you have West Nile virus, they’ll ask you about your medical history, current symptoms, recent travel and activities, and physically examine you to look for joint pain, neurological symptoms, and noticeable bug bites.
A definitive diagnosis can be made based on a blood test or spinal tap. Tests can be performed to look for the virus and to look for the proteins your body produces in response to infection.
Complications of West Nile virus include inflammation of the brain, inflammation of the fluid that protects the brain, or both. 10% of people who present with neurological symptoms die. It’s essential to seek immediate care if you have any West Nile virus symptoms, particularly if you’re in a high-risk group.
There’s no specific treatment for West Nile virus. Viruses cannot be treated with antibiotics, and there is no vaccine to prevent infection. For non-severe infections, over the counter pain medication, rest, and lots of fluids are key. For severe infections, hospitalisation is often required with intravenous fluid delivery and breathing support.
To prevent catching West Nile virus, apply insect repellent when you’re outdoors containing DEET, wear clothes covering your skin, treated with insect repellent, if possible, get rid of any standing water nearby, and consider staying inside during the early morning and evening, when mosquitoes are most likely to be active.