Not just a mosquito-borne fever: Let's learn about West Nile Virus

Mosquitoes are a very common and annoying species in our country. Since childhood, we have been accustomed to a mosquito biting our skin and causing a small blister. Although we are very afraid of dengue, we do not think too much every time a mosquito bites us. But did you know that there are other viruses that can be transmitted by mosquitoes, such as dengue, which can be more dangerous? One such virus is the 'West Nile virus'. Although the name is a bit new, it is very important to be aware of this.

Simply put, what is West Nile Virus?

West Nile is a virus that is transmitted to humans through mosquito bites. It was first identified in the West Nile region of Uganda. That's how it got its name. Most people infected with this virus don't have any symptoms . That's the good news. However, about one in five people infected (about 20%) may develop symptoms of a common viral fever, such as fever, headache, and body aches. We also call this "West Nile fever."

However, very rarely, in less than 1% of those infected (roughly one in 150 people), this virus can affect our nervous system . That's when the situation becomes serious. Severe inflammatory conditions related to the brain or spinal cord, such as encephalitis or meningitis, can occur.

What are the symptoms of this virus?

As we discussed earlier, this can come in two levels of symptoms. One is a normal fever. The other is a serious neurological condition. Let's clearly understand the difference between the two.

How is this virus transmitted?

This is very simple to understand. West Nile is a virus that belongs to the group called `(Arbovirus)`. That is, a virus that is transmitted by insects. Viruses that cause diseases like dengue, yellow fever, and Zika also belong to the group called `(Flavivirus).`

The infectious process is as follows:

1. First, a mosquito bites a bird infected with this virus.

2. Then the virus develops inside the mosquito's body.

3. Now that mosquito, which has contracted the virus, comes and bites a human .

4. That's when the virus enters the human body.

Think of it like a postman. He takes the letter called the virus from the bird and the mosquito brings it to you.

The most important thing is that this disease is not transmitted directly from one person to another . This means that you will not get the disease from touching, talking to, or using something that someone with West Nile Virus has used.

However, very rarely, cases of transmission through other means have been reported:

• From a pregnant mother to the child in the womb.
• Through breast milk.
• From a blood transfusion.
• With an organ transplant.

Who is at higher risk of developing this disease?

Mosquitoes bite everyone, but some people are more likely to develop serious illnesses if they get infected with this virus. Let's see who they are.

• People over 60 years of age .
• People who have had organ transplants (due to reduced immunity).
• Cancer patients.
• People with diabetes.
• People with high blood pressure (Hypertension).
• People with kidney disease.

Because their immune systems are relatively weak, it may be difficult for them to fight the virus. That is why the risk is increased.

How is it treated?

Unfortunately, there is no specific antiviral medication that can kill West Nile virus. Therefore, treatment is aimed at controlling symptoms.

For normal fever

If you only have general symptoms like fever and body aches, your doctor will tell you to rest at home, just like treating a common cold.

• Have a good rest .
• Drink plenty of fluids like water and fruit juice .
• You can take a medicine recommended by your doctor, such as paracetamol, for fever and pain.

For serious situations

If someone is showing serious symptoms related to the nervous system, they should definitely be hospitalized and treated . What they do in the hospital is help the body fight the virus and win.

• If it feels like a fit, they give you medicine for it.
• If there is difficulty breathing, oxygen is given or a ventilator is connected.
• Saline `(IV fluids)` is given to stop the body from dehydrating.
• Medications such as corticosteroids can be given to reduce brain swelling.

These treatments are designed to protect the patient's life and provide the body with the strength and support it needs to control the virus.

Most importantly: How to protect yourself from mosquitoes?

Since there is no vaccine for this, the best thing we can do is avoid mosquito bites. This is very similar to what we do to prevent dengue in our country.

• Avoid times when mosquitoes are most active: Especially at sunrise and sunset , when mosquitoes are most active. It is best to minimize your time outdoors during these times.
• Use insect repellent: If going outside, apply insect repellent lotion or ointment to exposed areas of skin.
• Wear clothing that covers the skin: Wearing clothing that covers the body, such as long pants and long-sleeved shirts, reduces the chance of being bitten by mosquitoes.
• Eliminate standing water: This is similar to dengue. Don't let water collect in places like coconut shells, old tires, yogurt cups, saucers under flower pots, and rain gutters . These are places where mosquitoes lay their eggs.
• Prevent mosquitoes from entering your home: Install screens on doors and windows. Always keep doors closed.
• Use mosquito nets: Using a mosquito net while sleeping at night is a very good protection.

When should I see a doctor?

If you develop symptoms like fever and headache within two to 14 days of being bitten by a mosquito, the best thing to do is to see your doctor for advice. He or she can examine you and refer you for tests if necessary.

However, if you have any of the following serious symptoms , don't delay even a minute . Go to the nearest hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) as soon as possible.

• An unbearable headache
• High fever
• Neck stiffness
• Confusion or memory loss
• Muscle weakness or tremors
• Having a seizure

In such a situation, prompt treatment can save lives and reduce long-term complications.