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West Nile fever is spreading in three districts of Kerala – Malappuram, Kozhikode and Thrissur and the state health department has issued an alert, directing officials to intensify pre-monsoon cleaning activities. At least ten cases of the vector-borne disease have been found so far. West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne flavivirus that can cause flu-like symptoms. It is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito, with Culex mosquitoes being the primary carriers of the disease. Human-to-human transmission is not yet known. According to Hindustan Times report, two people are suspected to have died due to WNV virus in recent days, although there has been no official confirmation yet.
What is West Nile Virus?
West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne flavivirus that can cause flu-like symptoms in people and some birds. The virus is most commonly found in Africa, Europe, West Asia and North America, but has been increasingly detected in other parts of the world, including Kerala.
“The virus is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Culex mosquitoes, which are common in Kerala, are the primary carriers of West Nile virus in the state. Most people infected with West Nile virus will not develop any symptoms. However, people who When symptoms appear, they will usually feel flu-like illness within 2 to 14 days of being bitten by an infected mosquito,” says Dr Neha Rastogi, consultant, infectious diseases, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram.
“West Nile fever is a mosquito-borne viral disease that has become a significant public health concern, especially during the warmer months when mosquito activity peaks. While most infected individuals have no symptoms or only mild, flu-like symptoms, experience symptoms, we must remain vigilant as this virus has the potential to cause serious and even life-threatening neurological complications, especially in the elderly and those with weakened immune systems,” Indraprastha. Says Dr Rakesh Gupta, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Apollo Hospital.
symptoms of west nile fever
“Some of the common symptoms of West Nile virus are fever, headache, body ache, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea etc.,” says Dr. Rastogi.
Experts say, “In some cases, West Nile virus infection can cause serious neurological disease, such as meningitis (inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord) or encephalitis (inflammation of the brain).
Preventive Tips
“There is no vaccine or specific treatment for West Nile virus infection. However, one can use insect repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR 3535. Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when outside. “Eliminate mosquito breeding grounds around your home by getting rid of water stored in tyres, buckets, pots and other containers, especially during the morning and evening hours when mosquitoes are most active,” suggests Dr Rastogi. Are.
“Effective prevention measures, such as using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and eliminating standing water sources where mosquitoes breed, are very important. Early recognition of symptoms, including fever, headache, body aches and rash, The key is early diagnosis and appropriate therapeutic intervention,” says Dr. Gupta.
Dr. Gupta says people with severe cases of West Nile fever may require hospitalization and supportive care, including intravenous fluids, respiratory support, and prevention of secondary infections.
“Close monitoring and management of neurological complications, such as encephalitis and meningitis, are important to minimize long-term effects and improve patient outcomes. Although there is currently no specific treatment or vaccine for West Nile fever, ongoing research Efforts are promising for future treatment and preventive measures, until then our focus remains on increasing awareness, promoting prevention strategies, and providing timely and comprehensive care.”
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