West Nile virus is an arbovirus. Viruses that are transmitted from one animal host to the next by insects (arthropods) are known as ‘arboviruses’ (arthropod-borne). Viruses comprise small pieces of genetic material (nucleic acid) whose sole purpose in life is to make more of themselves. Because they don’t have all the ability to do this alone, they have to muscle into ‘host’ cells and borrow bits of their machinery. The host develops an immune response to fight off this invasion and the rest follows as a consequence of this eternal struggle.
West Nile virus (WNV) is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the continental United States. It is most commonly spread to people by the bite of an infected mosquito. Cases of West Nile occur during mosquito season, which starts in the summer and continues through fall.
There are no vaccines to prevent or medications to treat this viruses. Fortunately, most people infected with the virus do not feel sick. About 1 in 5 people who are infected develop a fever and other symptoms. The time from infection to developing symptoms of West Nile infection is usually 3 - 14 days. Mild cases can get a high temperature, headache and body aches, often with skin rash and swollen lymph glands. About 1 in 150 people who are infected develop a severe illness affecting the central nervous system such as encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord). Diagnosis is made based on the symptoms and in most cases can be confirmed by urine, blood or spinal fluid test
Recovery from severe illness might take several weeks or months. Some effects to the central nervous system might be permanent. About 1 out of 10 people who develop severe illness affecting the central nervous system which can lead to death.
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There is a higher risk for severe illness to occur in infants and any one over 60 years of age. People with certain medical conditions, such as cancer, diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease, and people who have received organ transplants, are also at greater risk.
Humans cannot pass on the disease, so the best prevention is to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. Things to consider include:
Clothing: Cover as much skin as possible. Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, high socks, and a hat. Some people tuck the bottom of their pants into their socks.
Mosquito repellents: Use one with at least 10 percent concentration of DEET. DEET should not be used on young children, and insect repellent should not be used on infants under 2 months.
Mosquito traps, nets, and screens: Maintain screens on doors and windows, and have nets over beds and children's strollers. Ensure that there are no holes.
Smell: Avoid heavily scented soaps and perfumes, as these can attract mosquitoes.
Camping: Treat clothes, shoes and camping gear beforehand with permethrin. Specially treated clothes are available from some stores.
The time of day: Mosquitoes are more plentiful at dawn and dusk.
Stagnant water: Mosquitoes breed in clean, stagnant water.
Reduce the risk by eliminating stagnant water:
Check and remove stagnant water from around the home, and avoid camping near lakes and ponds. Turning over pails and watering cans and storing them under shelter can prevent them filling with water. Change your bird bath daily. Change the water in flower vases every two days, and scrub and rinse the inside of the vase thoroughly each time. Remove the water from plant pot plates, or avoid using them, if possible. Loosen hard soil from potted plants to prevent puddles from developing on the surface.
We can’t stay inside all summer, but we should use common sense. With just a few easy step, when taking care of your yards can help dramatically reduce your risk. When you go camping in the woods be careful where you are setting up your campsite. Try not to make it to close to the water. You should use insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants to prevent mosquito bites. With this information you should have a great summer.
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