|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The West Nile virus has been reported in the Kansas City Metro and many people are concerned about possibly contracting the virus. The virus can lead to potentially fatal complications but it is important to note that less than 1% of those infected with the virus become seriously ill. The vast majority of individuals will suffer from only mild infections with flu-like symptoms. Prevention of mosquito bites is the best way to avoid contracting West Nile virus. The chances of becoming ill from a single mosquito bite is extremely small.
West Nile is a virus that can lead to illness or in very rare cases fatal encephalitis (swelling or inflammation of the brain). There is no evidence of transmission from person to person or from animal to person. The only known source of infection for people is the bite of a mosquito infected with the West Nile virus. The virus is located in the salivary glands of a mosquito and can be injected in a person or animal when the insect is feeding. The virus can then multiply in the blood stream and may cause illness. The typical incubation period (time from infection to the onset of symptoms) is between three and fifteen days.
Most infections are mild and may result in fever, headache, body aches, and occasionally a skin rash or swollen lymph nodes. In some cases the infection may be more severe and be accompanied by headache, high fever, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, paralysis, or death. Severe complications occur in less than 1% of those infected and less than 15% of severe infections result in death.
If you are concerned that you or a family member has been exposed to the West Nile virus you should contact your health care provider. Your health care provider will assess you risk of having contracted the illness. If necessary a blood sample tested to confirm the presence of the virus can be done. There is no specific treatment for the West Nile virus and
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
no vaccine is currently available (although many companies are working on developing a vaccine). In the rare cases of severe infection, treatment involves hospitalization and supportive care.
There are several ways to reduce the likelihood of mosquito bites and in turn reduce your risk of contracting West Nile. It is best to stay indoors when mosquitoes are most active (dawn, dusk, and early evening) and to wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts whenever you are outside at these times. You should always wear insect repellant. Repellant can be sprayed onto clothing (mosquitoes can bite through thin clothing) and should be applied sparingly to exposed skin. An effective repellant for adults should contain 35% DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide). Higher concentrations of DEET are no more effective. Children over two typically should use insect repellant containing less than 10% DEET. It is not recommended to use DEET in children under two. Contact your child's pediatrician to determine what is appropriate for your child. Eliminate standing water or sources of standing water from around your home. Secure your window and door screens to insure that mosquitoes cannot get indoors.
Since birds can also be infected by the West Nile virus, dead birds may indicate that mosquitoes carrying the virus are in the area. If you find a dead bird in your neighborhood you should contact your local health department as soon as possible. Missouri residents should call 816-513-6140. Kansas residents should call 1-866-452-7810.
While the threat of West Nile virus exists, the threat of becoming seriously ill is very small. Common sense practices to avoid mosquito bites is the best way to protect yourself and your family. For more information regarding the West Nile virus contact your health care provider or the CDC (www.cdc.gov).
|
|
|
|
|
|
