West Nile fever is spreading throughout the three districts of Kerala–Malappuram, Kozhikode and Thrissur and State Health Department has issued an alert, instructing the authorities to hurry up pre-monsoon cleansing actions. So far, not less than ten instances of the vector-borne illness have been discovered. West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne flavivirus that may trigger flu-like signs. It is unfold through chunk of an contaminated mosquito, principally culex mosquitoes which might be thought of the first carriers of the illness. Human to human transmission is just not recognized but. Death of two individuals within the current days are suspected to be due to the WNV virus, as per a Hindustan Times report although no official affirmation has been made to this point.
What is West Nile virus?
West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne flavivirus that may trigger flu-like signs in individuals and a few birds. The virus is mostly present in Africa, Europe, West Asia, and North America, nevertheless it has been more and more detected in different elements of the world, together with Kerala.
“The virus is spread to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. Culex mosquitoes, which are common in Kerala, are the primary carriers of the West Nile virus in the state. Most people infected with West Nile virus will not develop any symptoms. However, those who do experience symptoms will typically feel flu-like illness within 2 to 14 days after 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, particularly during the warmer months when mosquito activity peaks. While the majority of infected individuals remain asymptomatic or experience only mild, flu-like symptoms, we must remain vigilant as this virus has the potential to cause severe and even life-threatening neurological complications, especially in vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with weakened immune systems,” says Dr Rakesh Gupta , Senior Consultant , Internal Medicine , Indraprastha apollo hospitals.
Symptoms of West Nile fever
“Some common symptoms of West Nile virus are fever, headache, body aches, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea etc,” provides Dr Rastogi.
“In a small number of cases, West Nile virus infection can lead to severe neurological illness, such as meningitis (inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord) or encephalitis (inflammation of the brain),” provides the skilled.
Preventive ideas
“There is no vaccine or specific treatment for West Nile virus infection. However, one can use insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535. Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when outdoors, especially at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. Eliminate mosquito breeding grounds around your home by getting rid of standing water in tires, buckets, flowerpots, and other containers,” suggests Dr Rastogi.
“Effective prevention measures, such as using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, and eliminating standing water sources where mosquitoes breed is very important. Early recognition of the symptoms, including fever, headache, body aches, and rash, is vital for prompt diagnosis and appropriate medical intervention,” says Dr Gupta.
Dr Gupta says individuals with extreme instances of West Nile fever might require hospitalization and supportive care, together with intravenous fluids, respiratory assist, and prevention of secondary infections.
“Close monitoring and management of neurological complications, such as encephalitis and meningitis, are critical to minimize long-term effects and improve patient outcomes. While there is currently no specific treatment or vaccine for West Nile fever, ongoing research efforts hold promise for future therapeutic and preventive measures. Until then, our focus remains on raising awareness, promoting prevention strategies, and providing timely and comprehensive care,” he provides.
Source: www.hindustantimes.com
