How is West Nile fever transmitted?

West Nile virus is most commonly spread to people by the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds. Infected mosquitoes then spread West Nile virus to people and other animals by biting them.

Where is West Nile fever found?

WNV is commonly found in Africa, Europe, the Middle East, North America and West Asia. WNV is maintained in nature in a cycle involving transmission between birds and mosquitoes. Humans, horses and other mammals can be infected.

How long does West Nile fever last?

Your body has to fight the infection on its own. In mild cases of West Nile, symptoms usually last for 3 to 6 days, and you can recover at home. If you get a more severe case of West Nile, symptoms can last for weeks or months, and you may need to stay in the hospital so you can get medicine to help you recover.

How does West Nile virus affect the body?

Humans get West Nile from the bite of an infected mosquito. Usually, the West Nile virus causes mild, flu-like symptoms. The virus can cause life-threatening illnesses, such as encephalitis, meningitis, or meningoencephalitis.

How does West Nile virus affect the immune system?

WNV can cross the blood–brain barrier by one of several routes, including passive transport through the endothelium, infection of the olfactory neurons, transport by infected immune cells, inflammation-induced disruption of blood–brain barrier integrity, and direct axonal retrograde transport from infected peripheral …

Can you die from West Nile fever?

The odds of getting the most severe forms of West Nile disease are about one in 150. The overall death rate in severe disease is about 10%. That makes the overall odds of dying from a West Nile infection about one in 1,500.

How did the West Nile fever get to the US?

West Nile virus was first identified in 1937 in Uganda in eastern Africa. It was first discovered in the United States in the summer of 1999 in New York. Since then, the virus has spread throughout the US. Researchers believe West Nile virus is spread when a mosquito bites an infected bird and then bites a person.

What is the prognosis of West Nile?

West Nile fever generally has an excellent prognosis. Most WNV infections (60%-75%) are asymptomatic and self-limited.

What are the symptoms of West Nile fever?

About 20 percent of people develop a mild infection called West Nile fever. Common signs and symptoms include: Fever. Headache. Body aches. Vomiting. Diarrhea. Fatigue.