© Getty Images

History of West Nile virus -

The West Nile virus was first discovered in 1937 in the West Nile district of Uganda, contracted by an adult woman. Later, in 1999, it emerged in the United States of America where it quickly spread.

© Shutterstock

How the West Nile virus spreads -

The West Nile virus (WNV) is transmitted via the Culex Pipiens, a Northern house mosquito. The mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds and then spread the virus to humans and animals.

© Shutterstock

Global presence -

The virus is commonly found in Africa, Europe, the Middle East, North America, and West Asia, according to the World Health Organization.

© Shutterstock

Symptoms of West Nile virus -

About 8 in 10 who are infected with the West Nile virus don't have symptoms. However, about 1 in 5 people who are infected experience symptoms such as a headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash.

© Shutterstock

Symptoms of West Nile virus -

Most people who contract the virus will recover completely. However, fatigue and weakness can continue for weeks or even months.

© Shutterstock

Severe symptoms of the West Nile virus -

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), if the illness is severe, possible symptoms include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness, and paralysis.

© Shutterstock

Incubation period of the West Nile virus -

The typical incubation period for the West Nile virus is two to six days, but according to various sources, it can last up to 15 days.

© Shutterstock

Complications of severe West Nile virus -

The West Nile can cause severe, life-limiting illnesses including encephalitis, meningitis, and meningoencephalitis.

© Shutterstock

Human-to-Human transmission -

Infected mosquito bites are the predominant cause of the West Nile virus. However, on rare occasions, the virus can be transmitted through blood transfusions, organ transplants, perinatally, or through breastfeeding.

© Shutterstock

Diagnosis of the West Nile virus -

According to the CDC, individuals who suspect they may have the West Nile virus "should first be tested for WNV-specific immunoglobulin (Ig)M antibodies in serum and/or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)." These tests are performed on blood samples or fluid extracted from the spine. 

© Shutterstock

Medical imaging for severe cases -

Imaging is not used to diagnose the West Nile virus directly, however, it can help in managing and understanding the extent of neurological involvement in severe cases of the disease.

© Shutterstock

Treatment for mild symptoms -

There is no antibiotic that can treat the virus, however, rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain medications such as Tylenol can help relieve some of the symptoms you might experience.

© Shutterstock

Hospitalization for severe symptoms -

In very severe cases of the West Nile virus, a patient will need to be hospitalized in order to receive supportive treatment. Treatments might include intravenous fluids, pain medication, and nursing care.

© Shutterstock

Preventing mosquito bites -

There are several steps you and your loved ones can take to help prevent mosquito bites. First and foremost, be sure to use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents.

© Shutterstock

Preventing mosquito bites -

It is also important to wear loose-fitting clothes with long sleeves. Finally, treat your clothing and any gear you might have with permethrin.

© Shutterstock

Standing water and mosquito breeding -

Standing water is a mosquito explosion waiting to happen. Mosquitos need standing water so that they can complete their lifecycle. They will lay their eggs in the still water and in as few as five days, they'll be born and biting humans and animals alike.

© Shutterstock

Role of birds in the West Nile virus cycle -

Some predatory birds such as hawks and owls, or even scavenger birds like crows, can become infected with the West Nile virus after eating sick or dead birds that already had the virus.

© Shutterstock

Role of birds in the West Nile virus cycle -

After the aforementioned birds become infected, mosquitos will become infected when they bite the bird. They can then pass it on to humans and other animals through bites. 

© Shutterstock

Public health campaigns -

Over the years, various communities have organized themselves to engage in outreach efforts aimed at sharing preventative practices.

© Shutterstock

Public health campaigns -

As there is no vaccine currently available, communities must come together to try and help reduce mosquito bites and the risks of West Nile virus.

© Shutterstock

Chronic conditions caused by West Nile virus -

The West Nile virus can cause long-lasting neurological changes that seriously impact the lives of those affected. For example, commonly reported symptoms include depression, memory loss, and motor dysfunction.

© Shutterstock

West Nile virus in older adults -

While severe illness can occur at any age, people who are 60 years and older are at a greater risk for severe side effects if they are infected.

© Shutterstock

West Nile virus and the immunocompromised -

According to the CDC, "People with certain medical conditions, such as cancer, diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease, and people who have received organ transplants, are also at greater risk."

© Shutterstock

West Nile virus in pets and animals -

The West Nile virus can infect pets and animals. Typically, house pets don't show symptoms. Horses, though, are more susceptible to neurological effects such as encephalitis. 

© Shutterstock

West Nile virus in urban vs. rural areas -

The virus tends to spread more in urban areas due to a higher density of humans and more standing water.

© Shutterstock

West Nile virus in urban vs. rural areas -

Rural areas aren't immune to the disease though, of course. Communities near wetlands or agriculture may experience outbreaks too. 

© Shutterstock

Living with long-term effects of West Nile virus -

The West Nile virus can result in permanent disabilities for some. It's advised that affected individuals seek out emotional and psychological support as well as physical therapy if applicable.

Sources: (CDC) (Cleveland Clinic) (Minnesota Department of Health) (Johns Hopkins Medicine) (CBS News) (ScienceDirect)

See also: "Sloth fever": How dangerous is the Oropouche virus?

© Shutterstock