As summer arrives, so do mosquitoes, bringing with them the risk of diseases like the West Nile virus (WNV). Since its introduction to the US in 1999, the WNV has become the leading cause of mosquito-borne diseases in the country, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). As of June 13, the CDC has reported 13 cases of WNV infections in the US this year.
How does the virus spread? The WNV, a flavivirus closely related to yellow fever, dengue fever, Japanese encephalitis, and the Zika virus, is primarily transmitted through the bites of infected Culex mosquitoes. These mosquitoes first bite infected birds and then transmit the virus to humans and other animals. The virus is not spread through handling or consuming infected animals, nor is it transmitted through physical contact, coughing, or sneezing. Humans and horses are accidentally infected by the virus, as it primarily circulates among birds.
While it is rare, there have been cases where the virus was transmitted through organ transplants, blood transfusions, or from mother to baby during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
Symptoms of WNV infections vary. About 80% of infected people will not experience any symptoms at all. They may only become aware of the infection if blood antibodies are checked. Approximately one in five infected individuals will develop mild symptoms like fever, body aches, headache, joint pain, diarrhea, rash, and vomiting. These symptoms usually resolve on their own, but some people may experience prolonged weakness and fatigue. In rare cases, about one in every 150 infected people, the virus can lead to severe conditions such as encephalitis or meningitis.
Those who develop severe illness may experience symptoms like headache, stiff neck, high fever, disorientation, vision loss, muscle weakness, convulsions, tremors, coma, or paralysis. People should seek immediate medical attention if they experience any change in personality or weakness in their limbs.
While anyone can develop severe illness, certain groups are at higher risk, including those over 60 years of age, organ transplant recipients, and individuals with diabetes, cancer, high blood pressure, kidney disease, immune disorders, or other medical conditions.
If you suspect you have been infected with WNV, it is crucial to see a healthcare provider. Diagnosis can be made by evaluating symptoms, recent exposure to mosquitoes, and testing blood or spinal fluid. Currently, there are no specific medications or vaccines available for the virus. Treatment usually involves managing symptoms with over-the-counter pain medications, rest, and fluids. Those with severe illness may require hospitalization for supportive care.
The prevalence of WNV has fluctuated since its arrival in the US in 1999. The number of cases ranged from as low as 21 in 2000 to a high of 9,862 in 2003. After a spike in 2012 to 5,674 infections, the annual number of cases remained relatively steady between 2,000 and 2,600 from 2013 to 2018. The number of cases dropped to 971 in 2019 and 731 in 2020, but has risen again to 2,911 in 2021. There were 1,126 infections in 2022. The increase in cases can be attributed to factors such as mosquito abatement practices, climate change, increased rainfall, and changes in bird populations.
Preventing mosquito bites is the best way to protect against WNV. Besides reducing the mosquito population through larvicide application and avoiding standing bodies of water, individuals should also use insecticide, wear long sleeves, and apply DEET during peak mosquito activity, which typically occurs at dawn and dusk in July and August.
By taking preventive measures and staying informed about the virus, individuals can reduce their risk of WNV infection during mosquito season.
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