Latest news with #WNV
Time of India
2 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Philadelphia confirms first West Nile Virus mosquito pool; know all about the viral disease, symptoms and treatment
The Philadelphia Department of Public Health recently confirmed the first positive mosquito pool for the West Nile virus (WNV) in the city. The same was detected in a sample collected near Pennypack Park in Northeast Philadelphia. While no case of human beings being affected has been yet reported, here's taking a look at the virus, disease, and symptoms... What is West Nile Virus West Nile virus is a viral disease that is transmitted mainly by the bites of infected mosquitoes. This virus can cause illnesses in people, and severe health issues (in rare cases). Let's learn more... Understanding West Nile Virus West Nile virus is a viral disease that is transmitted by mosquitoes. The virus is a member of the Flaviviruses, which also includes Zika, dengue and yellow fever viruses. The virus was first identified in the West Nile district of Uganda in 1937, and has since spread to other parts of the world including Africa, Europe, Middle East, North America and Asia. The main hosts of the virus are birds and mosquitoes, which feed on infected birds, who can then transmit the disease to humans and other animals like horses. How Do People Get Infected Most people get infected with West Nile virus through the bites of infected mosquitoes. The virus in the mosquitoes is acquired by feeding on birds that already carry the virus. The virus can also spread through blood transfusions, organ transplants and from mother to child during pregnancy, but these cases remain rare. When and Where Is West Nile Most Common The West Nile virus infections are mostly encountered during the mosquito season that runs from summer to early fall. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like AirSense 11 – Smart tech for deep sleep ResMed Buy Now Undo The cases are reported throughout the year in the warmer areas. West Nile Virus Symptoms Most People Have No Symptoms About 80 percent of people who are infected with West Nile virus, do not have any symptoms. Most people will not even know they were infected. Mild Symptoms About 20 percent of the infected people (1 in 5) will develop mild symptoms of West Nile fever that are known as 'West Nile fever.' These can include: Fever Headache Body aches or muscle pains Tiredness or weakness Skin rash on the trunk (upper body) Swollen lymph glands Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea Most of the mild cases recover on their own, and do not need any further medical intervention. These symptoms usually start between 3 and 14 days after the mosquito bite, and can last for several weeks. Severe (Serious) Symptoms Less than 1 in 150 infected people (under 1%) will get severe symptoms. The severe symptoms are a result of the virus entering the brain and nervous system, which results in serious conditions like meningitis (swelling of the lining of the brain and spinal cord) or encephalitis (swelling of the brain). Serious signs include: High fever Severe headache Stiff neck Disorientation or confusion Muscle weakness or paralysis Tremors or convulsions (shaking) Loss of consciousness or coma Sensitivity to light Seizures The risk of severe illness is high for the elderly people, people with weakened immune systems and those with chronic diseases. In rare cases, the infection can lead to permanent damage to the nervous or brain systems or can be deadly. Long-Term Effects The people who have had severe infections may experience some effects for months or even years, such as: Persistent tiredness or weakness Memory problems Headaches Trouble with balance How Is West Nile Virus Diagnosed Doctors usually diagnose West Nile virus by: Looking at symptoms Asking about recent mosquito exposure Doing blood tests or testing fluid from the spinal cord to check for the virus or antibodies Treatment for West Nile Virus No Specific Medicine There is no cure or specific treatment for West Nile virus. Antibiotics are not used since the disease is caused by a virus not bacteria. For mild cases: Most people with mild symptoms will recover on their own. Doctors suggest: Rest Drinking plenty of fluids Taking over-the-counter pain relievers for fever and aches, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen For severe cases: People who have serious symptoms usually have to go to the hospital for supportive care while their body is fighting off the virus. This can include…Patients receive IV (intravenous) fluids for dehydration prevention purposes. Prevention Since a cure does not exist, it is crucial to minimise mosquito bites. This can be done by: Applying mosquito repellents that contain DEET or other authorized ingredients. Wear full sleeved clothes and pants from dusk to dawn, because mosquitoes become most active during these times. The application of screens to windows and doors, functions as an effective barrier against mosquito entry. You must eliminate all standing water from flower pots, buckets and tires throughout your home, since it enables mosquito breeding. Sources Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Johns Hopkins Medicine World Health Organization (WHO) Cleveland Clinic
Boston Globe
7 days ago
- Health
- Boston Globe
Lunenburg goat is the state's first animal case of West Nile virus this year, state says
The state last week No human cases of West Nile virus have been detected yet this year, health officials said. In 2024, there were 19 confirmed human cases of the mosquito-borne virus reported in the state, and no animal cases. Advertisement 'With this evidence of an animal infected with West Nile virus, we know that there are the right conditions and enough disease circulating to result in a human infection,' Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein said in a statement. 'The elevated temperatures combined with high humidity increase mosquito activity,' Goldstein's statement said. 'We want to remind people that there are easy ways to prevent mosquitoes from biting you, like using mosquito repellent when you are outdoors and being mindful of peak mosquito activity hours.' People of all ages can be infected by the virus, but people over the age of 50 are at higher risk for severe disease, health officials said. Most people who are infected will show no symptoms. When symptoms are present, they generally include fever and flu-like illness, the department's statement said. Advertisement 'Animals that live outdoors are at somewhat higher risk from arboviruses than humans who spend more time indoors,' state epidemiologist Catherine M. Brown said in the statement. 'The weather this summer is creating the opportunity for it to be a busy WNV season and it is important to take steps to prevent mosquito bites,' Brown said. People are urged to protect themselves from mosquito bites by staying indoors during peak biting times in the early mornings and evenings, or by using insect repellents containing EPA-registered ingredients, or by applying oil of lemon eucalyptus. To protect animals, owners should eliminate standing water from containers, buckets, tires, wading pools, and water troughs. 'Water troughs provide excellent mosquito breeding habitats and should be flushed out at least once a week during the summer months to reduce mosquitoes near paddock areas,' health officials said. Horse owners are advised to keep their animals in indoor stalls at night to reduce risk of exposure, and to check with their veterinarians about mosquito repellents approved for animal use. Eastern Equine Encephalitis, another mosquito-borne illness, has not yet been detected this season, according to the Department of Public Health. Last year, there were four human and three animal cases confirmed in the state. If an animal is suspected of infection, owners are required to report to the Department of Agricultural Resources, Division of Animal Health at 617-626-1795, and to the Department of Public Health at 617-983-6800. More information, including all WNV and EEE positive results, can be found on the Arbovirus Surveillance Information web page at or by calling the DPH Division of Epidemiology at 617-983-6800. Advertisement Tonya Alanez can be reached at
Time of India
14-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
West Nile virus found in Fulton County: How it spreads and who is at risk
West Nile virus (WNV) is spreading through mosquitoes in Fulton County, Georgia. Two mosquito traps – in Hapeville and northwest Atlanta – in Fulton County tested positive for the West Nile virus, according to the Fulton County Board of Health. The virus is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes, which acquire the virus by feeding on infected birds. With no vaccine or targeted antiviral treatment available for humans, prevention and awareness are the primary defenses. While most people don't experience severe symptoms, those over 50 and individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for complications like encephalitis or meningitis. Let's delve into the science behind WNV transmission, its impact, and how individuals can stay vigilant and safe. What is West Nile Virus? West Nile virus is a single-stranded RNA virus that causes West Nile fever. It is a member of the family Flaviviridae, from the genus Flavivirus, which also contains the Zika virus, dengue virus, and yellow fever virus. The virus is primarily transmitted by mosquitoes, mostly species of Culex. Why the name? The virus was initially identified in the West Nile district of Uganda in 1937. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like The Most Beautiful Women In The World Undo It has since spread globally, including Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Australia, and North America. How does WNV spread? West Nile virus (WNV) is primarily spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on birds that carry the virus. Humans, horses, and other mammals can then contract WNV from the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes, particularly certain species of Culex mosquitoes, are the main vectors for WNV. They become infected when they bite birds that carry the virus. Birds, especially certain species like crows and jays, are considered amplifying hosts, meaning they can carry high levels of the virus in their blood, making them efficient transmitters to mosquitoes. When an infected female mosquito bites a human or other mammal, it injects saliva, which can contain the virus, into the bloodstream. While mosquito bites are the primary route, WNV can also be transmitted through blood transfusions and organ transplants, as well as from mother to child during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding. There have also been rare cases of transmission in laboratory settings and through oral-fecal routes in alligators and crocodiles. However, West Nile virus is not spread through casual contact with infected individuals or through the air. Moreover, mammals like humans are "dead‑end hosts" because they typically don't carry enough virus in their blood to facilitate further mosquito infection. Peak transmission occurs between July and October, a period marked by warm, humid weather that favors mosquito breeding and bird activity. Who are at risk? Although most people infected with West Nile virus remain asymptomatic (~80%), around 20% experience West Nile fever – flu‑like symptoms including fever, headache, fatigue, and sometimes rash. Less than 1% develop neuroinvasive disease (meningitis or encephalitis), marked by high fever, neck stiffness, confusion, tremors, or paralysis – conditions that can be fatal in about 10 % of these cases. Individuals over 60, organ transplant recipients, and those with weakened immune systems or certain chronic (comorbid) conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or kidney disease are at higher risk of severe West Nile virus illness. While anyone can be bitten by an infected mosquito, these groups are more likely to experience serious complications if infected. Additionally, people with weakened immune systems, due to conditions like HIV/AIDS, cancer, or undergoing chemotherapy, are more susceptible to severe illness. Individuals who have received organ transplants are at increased risk due to the immunosuppressant medications they take to prevent organ rejection. While not a direct risk factor for acquiring the virus, pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers should be cautious and consult with their doctor if they experience symptoms. Precautions and safety tips To prevent West Nile virus (WNV) infection, the most important precaution is to minimize mosquito bites. This involves using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and reducing mosquito breeding sites. Additionally, limiting outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours (dusk and dawn) and ensuring proper screening of windows and doors can help reduce exposure. Department of Public Health and the CDC recommend: Avoid peak mosquito activity: Be cautious at dusk and dawn, when Culex mosquitoes are most active. Use EPA‑registered insect repellents: DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus are recommended. Dress smart: When outdoors, especially during peak mosquito hours, wear long sleeves, long pants, and a hat to cover as much skin as possible. Eliminate standing water weekly: Dump water from flowerpots, gutters, and water bowls, as mosquitoes need only a bottlecap's water to breed. Maintain screens and doors: Install and repair screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out. Use mosquito netting: If you are sleeping outdoors or in an unscreened area, use mosquito netting to prevent bites. Be informed and report: Stay updated on local alerts and report stagnant water or dead birds to county health officials. Be aware of travel risks: If traveling to an area with known WNV activity, take extra precautions and consult with your doctor about necessary preventative measures. Georgia: Fulton County election workers testify about harassment
Los Angeles Times
24-06-2025
- Health
- Los Angeles Times
Navigating Viral Encephalitis and Connections to HSV, West Nile, and Rabies
When the brain gets inflamed, every second counts. Encephalitis symptoms start with flu-like symptoms and can rapidly progress to severe neurological issues. Swelling of the brain tissue can cause serious neurological symptoms and in some cases devastating outcomes. Encephalitis is a serious condition that can be life threatening if not treated promptly. Medical care and hospital admission are often required for management and monitoring. While many viruses can cause encephalitis, a few stand out for their prevalence and clinical significance: Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), West Nile Virus (WNV) which is spread by mosquitoes, and the rabies virus. Each of these pathogens requires a different and rapid approach to give patients the best chance of recovery. Encephalitis can present with a wide range of symptoms and outcomes from mild confusion to long term neurological deficits or even death. Understanding the targeted management strategies for these infections is key to navigating this medical emergency. Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) the same virus that causes cold sores is the leading cause of sporadic viral encephalitis in the US. The initial phase of HSV encephalitis is often acute with symptoms developing rapidly and requiring urgent attention. When it gets into the brain it can cause severe damage quickly. The stakes are high with an HSV infection so immediate empiric treatment is an absolute necessity often started based on clinical suspicion alone before diagnostic tests can confirm the cause [5]. Certain people such as those with weakened immune systems are more likely to get HSV encephalitis. Symptoms may include fever, headache, confusion and can progress to more severe complications including loss of consciousness. Other symptoms can include seizures, personality changes and focal neurological deficits. Severe cases can result in loss of function or even loss of consciousness. The cornerstone of treatment is the antiviral medication acyclovir given intravenously at 10 mg/kg every 8 hours for 14-21 days [2]. Treatments may include additional medications such as corticosteroids to reduce brain swelling and supportive care as needed. The course of treatment can take several weeks depending on the severity of the illness and the person. The urgency cannot be overstated. Any delay in starting acyclovir is associated with higher risk of death and permanent neurological damage. To put it in perspective, randomized studies have shown that the mortality rate with acyclovir treatment is 25% compared to 59% in those who did not receive it [6]. Long term complications can include memory loss and other cognitive impairments so individualized care for each person is essential. Diagnosing HSV encephalitis involves a few key tests. A lumbar puncture to analyze cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is essential. Diagnostic workup may include blood tests for markers of infection or immune response. A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test on the CSF can detect HSV's genetic material with incredible accuracy, with sensitivity and specificity rates of 96-98% and 95-99% respectively [2]. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the preferred imaging technique as it can show characteristic inflammation often in the temporal lobes of the brain. An electroencephalogram (EEG) which measures the brain's electrical activity can also provide clues sometimes showing a pattern known as lateralized periodic discharges that points to HSV. Steps to prevent or manage HSV encephalitis include taking precautions to avoid exposure and seeking medical attention if symptoms develop. As the most common mosquito borne cause of viral encephalitis in the US, West Nile virus, a type of flavivirus, is a significant public health challenge. West Nile virus is a form of infectious encephalitis primarily caused by viruses transmitted through mosquito bites. The incidence of severe neuroinvasive disease is higher in older adults and people with weakened immune systems who are more likely to get serious forms of the illness. There is no antiviral medication proven effective against West Nile virus. Management is focused on supportive care to manage symptoms and prevent complications. Supportive measures may include: Additional treatments may include various supportive therapies. These may include physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy to help people regain lost functions. Recovery steps can take time and depend on the severity of the illness and the person. Diagnosis is confirmed by detecting specific IgM antibodies in the CSF or serum which indicates recent infection. PCR testing can also be used. While MRI findings can vary, involvement of deep brain structures like the basal ganglia or thalamus may suggest WNV encephalitis [3]. The acute phase of the disease can be serious and require urgent medical attention. Neurological complications may affect speech and require therapy as part of rehabilitation. Outcomes vary widely; each person's recovery is unique and people may experience different long term effects so individualized care is essential. Rabies is perhaps the most feared form of viral encephalitis and for good reason. Rabies virus is a well known cause of encephalitis; it is one of the infectious agents that causes encephalitis and specifically rabies virus can cause encephalitis by invading the central nervous system. Once symptoms appear the disease is nearly 100% fatal. This grim prognosis makes prevention the only option as rabies encephalitis is a serious and acute neurological emergency. The focus of management is entirely on post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) a series of interventions given to someone who may have been exposed to the rabies virus from an animal bite or of encephalitis due to rabies may include fever, headache, confusion, agitation, muscle spasms, difficulty swallowing and loss of consciousness. Other symptoms may include loss of coordination, hallucinations and paralysis. Loss of consciousness is a serious sign indicating severe neurological involvement. In advanced cases a person with rabies encephalitis will require hospitalization and the illness can progress rapidly over days to weeks and be fatal without urgent medical care. According to the Infectious Diseases Society of America guidelines PEP is a multi-step process that must be initiated immediately [1]. The first and most critical step is to thoroughly clean the wound with soap and water to reduce the amount of virus at the site of exposure. This is the key action to take to prevent the virus from causing infection. Next Rabies Immune Globulin (RIG) is given. A dose of 20 IU/kg is injected into and around the wound to neutralize the virus before it can enter the nervous system. The final component is a series of vaccinations. The human diploid cell vaccine or purified chick embryo cell vaccine is given in four doses on days 0, 3, 7 and 14 after exposure. This regimen stimulates the body to produce its own antibodies against the virus providing long term protection. As the World Health Organization emphasizes timely and appropriate PEP is highly effective in preventing rabies and can be life saving for the person exposed. Regardless of the suspected cause, certain principles of care apply to all patients with encephalitis. Continuous monitoring for complications like ICP, seizures and respiratory failure is essential as these can arise quickly and require immediate attention [1]. Clinicians must have a high index of suspicion for encephalitis in any patient presenting with unexplained altered behavior, new onset seizures or focal neurological deficits. Not all encephalitis is caused by an infection. Autoimmune encephalitis such as anti-NMDAR encephalitis occurs when the immune system attacks healthy brain cells. This is often associated with specific antibodies or tumors. Blood tests to identify these antibodies can help distinguish autoimmune from infectious encephalitis and guide treatment. Autoimmune encephalitis can mimic viral forms and requires a completely different treatment approach involving immunotherapy. This highlights the need for a broad differential diagnosis [7]. Because of the deadly potential of untreated HSV, standard practice is to start empiric IV acyclovir in most suspected cases of encephalitis while diagnostic test results are pending [4]. This covers the most common treatable cause without delay. Managing viral encephalitis is a race against time that depends on rapid recognition and etiology specific interventions. For HSV the life saving treatment is urgent acyclovir. For West Nile virus supportive care is key to guiding patients through the illness. For rabies the battle is won before it even starts with post-exposure prophylaxis being the only defense against an otherwise fatal disease. Mistakes or delays in diagnosis and treatment can lead to irreversible brain damage or death so swift decisive action is required in every suspected case. For more information resources like the Encephalitis Society offer valuable resources for patients and healthcare professionals. [1] Tunkel, A. R., Glaser, C. A., Bloch, K. C., Sejvar, J. J., Marra, C. M., Roos, K. L., Hartman, B. J., Kaplan, S. L., Scheld, W. M., Whitley, R. J., & Infectious Diseases Society of America (2008). The management of encephalitis: clinical practice guidelines by the Infectious Diseases Society of America. Clinical infectious diseases : an official publication of the Infectious Diseases Society of America, 47(3), 303–327. [2] Halperin J. J. (2017). Diagnosis and management of acute encephalitis. Handbook of clinical neurology, 140, 337–347. [3] Kumar R. (2020). Understanding and managing acute encephalitis. F1000Research, 9, F1000 Faculty Rev-60. [4] Ellul, M., & Solomon, T. (2018). Acute encephalitis - diagnosis and management. Clinical medicine (London, England), 18(2), 155–159. [5] Alam, A. M., Easton, A., Nicholson, T. R., Irani, S. R., Davies, N. W. S., Solomon, T., & Michael, B. D. (2023). Encephalitis: diagnosis, management and recent advances in the field of encephalitides. Postgraduate medical journal, 99(1174), 815–825. [6] Abboud, H., Probasco, J. C., Irani, S., Ances, B., Benavides, D. R., Bradshaw, M., Christo, P. P., Dale, R. C., Fernandez-Fournier, M., Flanagan, E. P., Gadoth, A., George, P., Grebenciucova, E., Jammoul, A., Lee, S. T., Li, Y., Matiello, M., Morse, A. M., Rae-Grant, A., Rojas, G., … Autoimmune Encephalitis Alliance Clinicians Network (2021). Autoimmune encephalitis: proposed best practice recommendations for diagnosis and acute management. Journal of neurology, neurosurgery, and psychiatry, 92(7), 757–768. [7] Graus, F., Titulaer, M. J., Balu, R., Benseler, S., Bien, C. G., Cellucci, T., Cortese, I., Dale, R. C., Gelfand, J. M., Geschwind, M., Glaser, C. A., Honnorat, J., Höftberger, R., Iizuka, T., Irani, S. R., Lancaster, E., Leypoldt, F., Prüss, H., Rae-Grant, A., Reindl, M., … Dalmau, J. (2016). A clinical approach to diagnosis of autoimmune encephalitis. The Lancet. Neurology, 15(4), 391–404.
Yahoo
05-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Mississippi reports first West Nile case of 2025 season
JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – The Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) reported the first case of West Nile Virus (WNV) for the 2025 mosquito season. This first case was confirmed in Rankin County. In 2024, Mississippi recorded 59 confirmed human cases and eight deaths related to WNV. WNV is transmitted primarily through the bite of an infected mosquito. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most people (8 out of 10) infected with WNV do not develop any symptoms. About one in five people who are infected develop a fever with other symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. According to MSDH, the summer is prime time for mosquitos to feast and potentially spread illnesses like WNV. Mississippi offers walk-in immunization clinics for students Stay indoors or take personal protective measures, especially between dusk and dawn, which are peak mosquito biting times. Wear EPA-registered mosquito repellent outdoors and always follow label instructions. Apply repellent on exposed skin only. Do not apply under clothing or on broken skin. Carry a travel-size repellent if you will be outdoors for an extended period. Apply sunscreen first, insect repellent second, if you are also wearing sunscreen. Wear long-sleeved, long-legged clothing with socks and shoes when practical. Dispose of tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots or similar water-holding containers. Remove all discarded tires on the property. Used tires have become the most common mosquito breeding site in the country. Remove all leaf debris. Close garbage can lids. Be sure water does not collect in the bottom of garbage cans. Turn over plastic wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use. Change the water in bird baths frequently (every 2-3 days). Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs. Repair damaged or torn window and door screens. Remove outdoor pet food and water dishes that are not being used. If you know of specific mosquito control problems, call your local city or county public works. Learn what your local government is doing to control mosquitoes. Ask how you can help. Remind or help neighbors to eliminate mosquito breeding sites on their property. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
