The West Nile virus infection is one that is spread by the bite of infected mosquitoes and usually causes a mild illness, but may also cause encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord) or polio-like paralysis. This virus is named after the West Nile region of Uganda where the virus was first isolated in 1937. It was first identified in the United States in New York in 1999.
Anyone can get West Nile virus infection if bitten by an infected mosquito; however, even in areas where transmission of West Nile virus is known to be occurring only a small proportion of mosquitoes are likely to be infected. Less than 1% of people bitten by an infected mosquito will become seriously ill. People who are over age 50 are at greater risk of severe illness.
The disease may be mild or serious. Mild illness includes fever and muscle aches, swollen lymph glands and sometimes a skin rash. In the elderly, infection may spread to the nervous system or bloodstream and cause sudden fever, intense headache, and stiff neck and confusion, possibly resulting in encephalitis or meningitis. Healthy children and adults may not have any symptoms.
There is no specific treatment. Supportive therapy will be used in more severe cases. Most people recover from this illness. There is no vaccine for humans.
Mosquito Breeding Habitats
Surveillance & Control (Excellent Article)
Pesticides
Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
Preventing WNV
WNV Brochure
Home Diagram
Links
VDH WNV Fact Sheet
CDC Information on West Nile Virus
American Mosquito Control Association
EPA and Mosquito Control
