West Nile virus

The virus is a member of the Faviviridae family which also includes the Zika virus, Dengue Fever and Yellow Fever virus.

Culex mosquitoes and ticks transmit the disease, which affects humans, birds, mosquitoes, horses and other mammals. The incubation period for the disease ranges between 2 and 15 days after the bite.

Mosquito Diseases

  

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Symptoms

Eight out of 10 people infected with West Nile virus do not develop symptoms.

One in five will encounter symptoms including headaches, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhoea or a rash.​

Although patients recover completely, fatigue and weakness can last up to several months. In rare cases (1 person out of 150), the person infected may develop severe central nervous system illnesses (encephalitis or meningitis).

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Prevention & Treatment

Preventive measures against the virus include sleeping under an insecticide treated bed net and the constant use of the appropriate skin repellent to prevent bites in the affected regions.

As there is no vaccine or antiviral treatment, affected individuals will relieve their symptoms with over-the-counter medicines whilst patients suffering from a severe case will be hospitalized to receive supportive treatment.

If you suspect that you or a family member has the West Nile virus disease, talk with your doctor.