West Nile Fever is a viral infection caused by the West Nile virus (WNV), which belongs to the Flavivirus genus of the family Flaviviridae. It is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes, particularly those belonging to the Culex species. The virus is maintained in nature through cycles involving mainly birds and mosquitoes. West Nile Fever was first identified in Uganda in 1937 and has since spread to many regions around the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia.
The onset of symptoms following WNV infection can vary from mild to severe. Many individuals infected with the virus remain asymptomatic, while some develop mild symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, and fatigue. However, in a minority of cases, particularly among older individuals or those with weakened immune systems, the infection can progress to a more serious form known as West Nile neuroinvasive disease. This can involve inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) or the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord (meningitis), leading to more severe symptoms like high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, disorientation, muscle weakness, tremors, and in rare cases, seizures or paralysis.
Currently, there is no specific treatment for West Nile Fever, and management primarily focuses on relieving symptoms. Prevention efforts mainly involve controlling mosquito populations through the use of insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, and eliminating standing water sources where mosquitoes can breed. Additionally, public health authorities conduct surveillance programs to monitor the spread of the virus and implement measures to reduce human exposure.
