West Nile virus (WNV) is a potentially serious viral infection transmitted to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes, primarily of the Culex genus. The virus is named after the West Nile region of Uganda, where it was first identified in 1937. WNV belongs to the Flavivirus genus and is closely related to other mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever, yellow fever, and Zika virus.
When a mosquito carrying WNV bites a person, the virus can enter the bloodstream and cause infection. While many people infected with WNV do not experience any symptoms, others may develop mild to severe symptoms including fever, headache, body aches, fatigue, and rash. In rare cases, WNV infection can lead to severe neurological diseases such as encephalitis or meningitis, which can cause inflammation of the brain or surrounding tissues.
While WNV is primarily transmitted through mosquitoes, it can also be spread through other means such as blood transfusions, organ transplants, and from mother to baby during childbirth or breastfeeding. However, these modes of transmission are relatively rare.
Prevention of WNV primarily involves taking measures to avoid mosquito bites, such as using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, and ensuring proper mosquito control in communities. There is currently no specific treatment available for WNV infection, so prevention is of paramount importance.
