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August Health Tip by Dr. Coberly

What’s In The News:

West Nile Virus

West Nile virus is a virus that is common in Africa, West Asia, and the Middle East.  The first case of West Nile virus in the United States occurred in 1999, and since that time it has been found in all of the lower 48 states.  Two cases have been reported in Missouri so far this summer (as of July 31, 2007).

West Nile virus can infect humans, birds, horses and mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are infected when they bite birds that carry the virus. People can then get West Nile virus when an infected mosquito bites them. You cannot get West Nile virus from another person.

About 80% of people who are infected with West Nile virus will have no symptoms at all. Others may have only a mild illness.  Symptoms usually occur between 2 to 14 days after a person is bitten by an infected mosquito, although this time can be longer in people with weakened immune systems. The most common symptoms include slight fever, headache, muscle aches, decreased appetite, and rash. Eye pain, sore throat, vomiting diarrhea, and abdominal pain can also occur. 

In less than 1% of people who are infected, the West Nile virus can cause severe illness with swelling of the brain (encephalitis) or swelling of the membranes surrounding the brain (meningitis). Symptoms of severe illness include sudden, severe headache, high fever, stiff neck, confusion, weakness and coma.

Most people recover from West Nile virus without any treatment.  People with a mild illness usually get better in 3 to 10 days.  People with more severe symptoms may need to be hospitalized and may be sick for several weeks.

The best way to avoid infection with West Nile virus is to prevent mosquito bites.  Remove standing water from your yard to reduce the number of mosquitoes around your home.  Stay indoors during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active, and if you do go outdoors wear shoes and socks and long clothing for protection.  You should also use an insect repellent that contains DEET; apply this according to the instructions on the label.

For more information about the West Nile virus, visit:
MedlinePlus
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
FamilyDoctor.Org

For more information:
MU Health Sciences Library