What Are Some Symptoms of West Nile Virus?

West Nile virus (WNV) is a potentially debilitating mosquito-borne illness that can cause a range of symptoms, from mild to severe. While most people who contract WNV will not experience any symptoms at all, others may develop a fever, headache, or other symptoms that can vary in severity.

Mild Symptoms:

For those who do experience symptoms, they are often mild and may include:

• Fever: A temperature of 102°F (39°C) or higher
• Headache: A severe headache that can be described as a sharp, stabbing pain
• Muscle weakness: Sore or aching muscles
• Skin rash: A rash or redness on the skin, particularly on the face, neck, or arms
• Swollen lymph nodes: Enlarged lymph nodes on the neck or underarm

Severe Symptoms:

In some cases, WNV can cause more severe symptoms, including:

• High fever: A fever of 103°F (39.4°C) or higher
• Seizures: Seizures, particularly in children, people over 60, and those with weakened immune systems
• Meningitis: Inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord
• Encephalitis: Inflammation of the brain
• Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM): A rare but serious condition that affects the brain and spinal cord

Complications:

While rare, WNV can also cause more serious complications, including:

• Cerebral edema: The accumulation of fluid in the brain, which can be life-threatening
• Respiratory failure: Difficulty breathing, which can require mechanical ventilation
• Cardiac problems: Abnormal heart rhythms or failure

Groups at High Risk:

Certain individuals are more susceptible to severe WNV illness and should take extra precautions to avoid mosquito bites:

• Older adults (65+ years old)
• People with weakened immune systems, such as those with cancer, HIV/AIDS, or taking immunosuppressive medications
• People with chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes, kidney disease, or liver disease
• Premature infants
• People who have received an organ transplant
• People with a history of WNV infection or illness

Prevention:

The best way to avoid WNV is to prevent mosquito bites. Some prevention methods include:

• Using insect repellent with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus
• Wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and closed-toe shoes
• Avoiding peak mosquito hours (dawn and dusk)
• Eliminating standing water around homes and buildings to prevent mosquitoes from breeding
• Installing window and door screens

If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. While there is no specific treatment for WNV, antiviral medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms. Early detection and treatment can help reduce the risk of severe complications and improve outcomes. Stay safe and take steps to protect yourself from mosquito bites!