WEST NILE VIRUS MOSQUITO AFFLICTIONS
This Mosquito Afflictions series breaks down some of the most common dangerous diseases that can be transmitted by mosquitos.
WEST NILE VIRUS
** PLEASE NOTE: This blog is intended for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always seek the advice of a doctor and/or medical treatment if necessary**
The West Nile Virus originates from infected birds that pass on the pathogens when bitten by a mosquito. Once the mosquito is contaminated, it can pass the illness on to both humans and animals. In rare cases, the virus can be transmitted through a blood transfusion or an organ transplant, but this is very unlikely as donors are normally put through screening processes.
Risk of infection with West Nile Virus increases exponentially during the summer months as mosquitos are more active during the warm weather. Luckily, most people who are infected with this virus do fully recover.
It can take between 2-14 days for symptoms to begin showing up after contracting this virus. Most cases actually do not display any signs or symptoms at all. In the 20% of people who will develop West Nile fever (a mild infection from the disease) they may experience:
- High fever
- Headaches and body aches
- Upset stomach
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Skin Rash
While it is very rare, roughly 1 out of every 150 people infected may develop a serious infection that attacks the neurological system resulting in encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). Some negative symptoms indicative of a severe case includes:
- Significantly elevated fever
- Severe Headache
- Stiffness of the neck
- Muscle fatigue followed by partial paralysis
- Disorientation
- Shakiness/Tremors
- Seizures
It is important to always seek medical help when you feel it may be necessary as the longer West Nile Virus remains untreated, some of the aforementioned neurological debilitations can become permanent.
Recovery from a severe case may take up to a few months and is typically longer for those more susceptible to the disease. While risk of serious infection is only roughly 1%, people may be more likely to develop serious symptoms if they are of advanced age, or have other pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or cancer.
There is currently no vaccine or antivirals that exist to eliminate The West Nile Virus. However, supportive treatments and care are available, and you can always discuss your symptoms with your health care provider to decide what the best course of action for your case is.
Sydney’s Best Pest Control have a highly trained and experienced team which is here to provide you with year-round protection against a variety of pests. To schedule your next pest control, call us on 1800 819 189 or email us using our easy contact us form.
Further Reading
Treating a bug bite naturally and effectively
Is your home a mosquito sanctuary?
What pests to expect in spring
