About this topic
West Nile virus is also called WNV. It is caused by a virus. This illness is passed on by infected mosquitoes. You cannot get it from some other person. Those living in an area where West Nile virus is present in mosquitoes can get infected from a single mosquito bite. ‚
Most people have very mild signs or no signs at all. Some people have swelling around the brain and spine. WNV can be deadly. ‚
There are no specific treatments or vaccines for WNV. Treatment depends on the signs. It is important to prevent fluid loss. ‚
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What are the causes?
WNV is caused by a virus. A mosquito picks up the virus from biting an infected bird. Then, the infected mosquito passes on the virus by biting people or animals. Very rarely, WNV is passed on in other ways. It may also be spread from a mother to her unborn baby or through breastfeeding. Blood transfusions or organ transplants may also spread this illness. ‚
What can make this more likely to happen?
You are more likely to get WNV during mosquito season. You may be at risk if you live in an area where there are cases of WNV. If you work or spend a lot of time outdoors, you have a higher risk. ‚
Some things make you more likely to have a very bad case of WNV. Children and older adults are in this group. So are people who have serious illnesses like diabetes or HIV. ‚
What are the main signs?
Signs of mild WNV infection are: ‚
- Fever
- Headache
- Upset stomach and throwing up
- Body or muscle aches and pain, weakness
- Skin rash
- Swollen glands
Signs of a serious WNV infection are: ‚
- High fever
- Very bad headache
- Stiff neck
- Confusion or not able to think clearly
- Muscle spasms
- Muscle weakness or paralysis
- Seizures
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
Your doctor will take your history and do an exam. The doctor may ask you where you were when you got sick. Your doctor will want to treat your signs. The doctor may order: ‚
- Blood tests
- Spinal tap to check for infection
- MRI scan
- Electroencephalogram (EEG) to look at brain activity
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Most cases of WNV are mild and need no treatment. If you have a more serious case, your doctor will want to treat your signs. This may include giving you I.V. fluids or other drugs. In some cases, a breathing machine may be used. ‚
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Lower fever
- Help with pain and swelling
- Treat the signs of WNV
What problems could happen?
Problems from mild WNV are rare. Problems from severe WNV may include: ‚
- Brain damage
- Long-term muscle weakness
- Death
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
Get rid of areas where mosquitoes like to breed. ‚
- Drain unused swimming pools.
- Dump out water that may collect in tires, buckets, or containers.
- Clean or unclog roof gutters.
- Clear your yard of dead trees to remove insects that live in them.
Protect yourself. ‚
- Use mosquito repellent on your skin.
- Wear clothes that will cover your arms and legs.
- Avoid unnecessary activities outside your house.
- Place wire screens in your windows and doors to keep mosquitoes from coming in.
- Sleep under a mosquito net.
- Avoid places where there is a WNV fever outbreak.
Helpful tips
- Do not touch dead birds unless you are wearing gloves.
- Call your health department if you find a dead bird.
Where can I learn more?
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ‚
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/wnv_factSheet.htm ‚
KidsHealth ‚
http://kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/outdoor/west_nile.html ‚
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases ‚
http://www.niaid.nih.gov/topics/westNile/understanding/Pages/what.aspx ‚
National Organization for Rare Disorders ‚
http://www.rarediseases.org/rare-disease-information/rare-diseases/byID/1123/viewAbstract ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚