Infections

Trauma

West Nile Virus

Humans get this infection from a mosquito that has bitten an infected bird. Birds are the main host for WNV.

The vast majority (80%) of people bitten will remain asymptomatic, but some become symptomatic in 2days-2 weeks. Fever, headache, eye pain, and a rash have been the main problems. The serious complications are the neurological-encephalitis, meningitis and paralysis. The mortality rate for the neurological complications is 1.6%, with the elderly and immunosuppressed especially at risk. Some of the neurological sequellae are permanent-tremor, gait disturbance, paralysis, and Parkinsonism.

• WNV primarily circulates between infected birds and mosquitoes that bite them. Only female mosquitoes bite and feed on blood; males feed on nectar. The infected mosquitoes can transmit the virus when they bite other animals or people.
• More than 130 species of birds have been reported to be infected with WNV, according to the CDC. The virus also can infect horses and some other animals.
  

Fortunately, the West Coast has missed the infection, although cases may be reported, since the virus is here.

Diagnosis is by blood test and will be positive at onset of symptoms.

Treatment has not been effective, although in Israel, use of a hyperimmune (serum from a patient with prior infection) injection is used.

Read more on how to prevent mosquito bites at www.cdc.gov

Written & edited by Robert E. Dyer, MD