By rssfeeds-admin About West Nile Virus
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), West Nile Virus is the “leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the continental United States.” The disease is primarily spread through mosquito bites, but on rare occasions can be passed person-to-person.
The CDC says that 8 out of 10 people do not develop symptoms after being infected with West Nile Virus. Some people (1 in 5) will develop a fever and other symptoms, such as aches, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Most people with these symptoms will recover completely, but fatigue and weakness can last for weeks to months, according to the CDC.
In even fewer cases, roughly 1 in 150, people infected with West Nile Virus will develop a severe illness such as encephalitis or meningitis. The CDC states that older adults and those who are immunocompromised are most at risk of developing these illnesses, and 1 in 10 of those who develop severe illness die.
There is no specific treatment or vaccine available for West Nile Virus. Some symptoms can be relieved with over-the-counter medications, but if severe illness develops, patients often need to be hospitalized.
The CDC states that the best way to protect yourself from West Nile Virus is to prevent mosquito bites. More information about how the disease spreads and information about West Nile Virus can be found on the CDC’s website.