West Nile Fever

What is West Nile virus?

Virus (fever) West Nile Virus (LZN) – infection, which is most often transmitted through a mosquito bite. In rare cases, can lead to serious LZN complications or death.

This infection is most common in the tropics, but with the spread of tourism can occur anywhere in the world.

The reasons for the emergence of West Nile fever

West Nile fever is caused by a virus, which is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Very rarely, the virus can also be transmitted through infected blood transfusion.

West Nile risk factors

The greatest risk factor for infection LZN – finding the areas of mosquitoes spread West Nile virus. The risk of complications when infected persons have increased LZN:

• Senior 50 years;
• Having a weakened immune system.

West Nile Fever – symptoms

Most people have no symptoms LZN. At approximately 20% people, who are infected develop flu-like symptoms LZN, such as:

• Fever and chills;
• Headache;
• Muscle aches;
• Nausea and vomiting;
• Diarrhea;
• Rash;
• Hyperadenosis;
• Conjunctivitis – eye inflammation.

Symptoms may appear within 2-6 days and can last from several days to several weeks.

A small number of persons from developing serious LZN, neurological symptoms, which may include:

• High fever;
• Headache;
• Stiff neck;
• Disorientation;
• Stupor;
• Tremor;
• Loss of sight;
• Severe muscle weakness;
• Paralysis;
• Coma.

With these life-threatening symptoms should immediately seek medical assistance.

Diagnosis of West Nile fever

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical examination, as well as ask:

• About the symptoms, that you experience;
• Where you live or have traveled lately;
• Did you recently with mosquitoes.

To confirm the diagnosis LZN widely used blood test. Depending on the symptoms observed, your doctor may prescribe other tests, such as:

• MRT;
• Analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid.

West Nile Fever – treatment

To treat LZN used supportive therapy. Depending on the symptoms, the doctor may recommend:

• Analgesics;
• Antiemetics, to reduce nausea and vomiting.

If a strong KS organism, perhaps, you will need to drink fluids, regidratiruûŝie or enter the fluid via IV.

Treatment of severe West Nile symptoms may include:

• Support breathing with the help of mechanical ventilation;
• Medication, to control seizures;
• Medication, to reduce brain swelling.

West Nile Fever – prevention

The best preventive measure against LZN is to avoid mosquito bites. Preventive measures include:

• Exclude stay outdoors at dawn or at dusk, during the period of greatest activity of mosquitoes;
• Wear long pants and long-sleeved shirt, when you are outdoors;
• Use repellents, containing DEET;
• To prevent mosquitoes in the House, use on Windows, mosquito net and handle places clusters of mosquito insecticides;
• To prevent mosquito breeding do not allow stagnant water in the puddles, gutters, tanks near the House.

Mosquitoes become infected LZN, biting infected birds. If you see a dead bird, do not touch it, If you do not wear disposable gloves.