How does West Nile virus kill you?

How does West Nile virus kill you?

How Does West Nile Virus Actually Cause Severe Illness and Death in Humans? Following transmission by an infected mosquito, West Nile virus can multiply in the blood system and cross the blood-brain barrier to reach the brain. When this happens, it causes West Nile Neuroinvasive Disease.

What does West Nile virus do to a person?

About 1 in 5 people who are infected develop a fever with other symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Most people with febrile illness due to West Nile virus recover completely, but fatigue and weakness can last for weeks or months. Serious symptoms in a few people.

How are people affected by the West Nile virus?

Key points 1 Humans get West Nile from the bite of an infected mosquito. 2 Usually, the West Nile virus causes mild, flu-like symptoms. 3 The virus can cause life-threatening illnesses, such as encephalitis, meningitis, or meningoencephalitis. 4 There is no vaccine available to prevent West Nile virus. So, it is important to avoid mosquito bites.

How long does it take for West Nile to show symptoms?

If diagnosed and treated quickly, the outlook for West Nile virus recovery is good. If you have West Nile virus, you will typically show the first virus symptoms within three to 14 days of being bitten. West Nile virus symptoms vary in severity. Severe symptoms can include: A severe infection can last for several weeks.

How can you protect yourself from West Nile virus?

Exposure to mosquitoes where West Nile virus exists increases your risk of getting infected. Protect yourself from mosquitoes by using mosquito repellent and wearing clothing that covers your skin to reduce your risk.

Can a dead bird pass on the West Nile virus?

Don’t touch or handle these birds. Dead birds can easily pass the West Nile virus on to mosquitos, which can pass it to humans even with a single bite. If any signs of the virus are found in the area around the bird, the health agency will likely increase pest control activity or pesticide use.

What is the prognosis of West Nile?

West Nile fever generally has an excellent prognosis. Most WNV infections (60%-75%) are asymptomatic and self-limited.

What is West Nile fever?

West Nile fever. West Nile fever is an infection by the West Nile virus, which is typically spread by mosquitoes. In about 80% of infections people have few or no symptoms.

How is West Nile spread?

West Nile virus is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes get infected with West Nile virus by feeding on infected birds. The mosquitoes that spread West Nile virus are active during the summer and into the fall, or anytime during warm weather months.