What
is West Nile virus?
-
West Nile virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne disease that is common
in Africa, west Asia and the Middle East .
How does someone get West Nile virus?
-
People usually get WNV from the bite of an infected mosquito.
There is also evidence that WNV can be acquired via a blood transfusion
or organ transplant from an infected donor. The virus can infect
humans, birds, mosquitoes, horses and some other mammals.
What
are the symptoms and treatment?
-
Most people who are bitten by a mosquito with WNV will not get
sick. People who do become ill may experience mild to moderate
flu-like symptoms
like fever, headache and body ache. It is estimated that less
than 1% of the people who are infected with WNV become severely
ill and require
hospitalization. The elderly and immunocompromised are particularly
susceptible to illness caused by WNV.
-
Currently
there is no specific treatment for WNV infection. Since it is
a virus it does not respond to antibiotics. In severe cases
hospitalization
and supportive care is important.
- If
you have symptoms of West Nile virus, call your doctor.
How
can people protect themselves?
-
Avoid
spending time outside at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are active.
They are especially active for two hours after sunset.
-
When
outdoors, wear long pants, long sleeve shirts and other protective
clothing.
-
Apply
insect repellent containing DEET according to label instructions.
-
Make
sure that doors and windows have tight fitting screens. Repair
or replace screens that have tears or holes.
-
Eliminate
all sources of standing water that can support mosquito breeding.
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