West Nile Virus
Luke Urland
History Background
West Nile Virus was first found in Northern Uganda in 1937. It than began to spread and is now commonly found in Africa, West Asia, and the Middle East. It was first discovered in the United States in 1999 in New York City. It can be found in 47 states coast to coast
How is it transmitted?
West Nile Virus is transmitted by mosquitoes. It is most likely to spread by a bite from an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected by feeding on infected birds. Infected mosquitoes then spread the virus by biting Humans and Animals. In very rare cases, it can be transmitted through blood transfusion and organ donation. It cannot be spread through contact.
Symptoms
Most of the time, people don't develop symptoms or only have minor ones like fevers and headaches. However, some people can develop life threatening illnesses such as inflammation of the spinal cord or brain.
Emerging or Reemerging?
West Nile Virus is in between. There are still out breakouts in certain areas.
Treatment
There is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatments for West Nile Virus. Over the counter pain relievers can be used to reduce fever or other symptoms. In severe cases, people would most likely be hospitalized where they would give someone IV fluids, pain medication, and nursing care.
Ecology and Economic impacts
In the United states alone, West Nile virus hospitalizations have cost nearly $800 million since its been around. Global warming could be a possible affect knowing that mosquitoes like warmer weather.