 |
 any
people have heard of West Nile virus and know that it is transmitted through
the bite of an infected mosquito. You may not be sure though about what West
Nile virus means for your own health. How do you know if you have West Nile
virus? What are the symptoms? Can you get really sick from West
Nile virus? What is the treatment?
Most people infected with the virus will have no symptoms at all or their symptoms
will clear up without them ever realizing they have been infected. Others may
develop what can be called a "mild" case of West Nile virus. They
have flu-like symptoms, including fever, headache, body aches and fatigue. People
in this group may also develop a mild rash or swollen glands. If you have these
symptoms during late spring. summer, or early fall, you should contact your
doctor, especially if West Nile is active in your area or if you've visited
an area where the virus was active.
Severe symptoms of West Nile virus include the onset of meningitis, which is
inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord, and encephalitis, which
is inflammation of the brain itself. These conditions can be fatal, and symptoms
could include the rapid onset of severe headache, high fever, stiff neck, nausea,
difficulty swallowing, vomiting, drowsiness, confusion, lack of coordination,
muscle weakness, paralysis and loss of consciousness. Hospital care is necessary
for people who develop these severe symptoms. There is no specific treatment
or medication for these symptoms. Serious cases are treated with supportive
therapies to ease symptoms and prevent secondary infections.
Anyone, of any age or health status, can develop these potentially devastating
- and sometimes fatal - symptoms. Generally, people with chronic diseases (such
as cancer, diabetes, alcoholism, or heart disease), and people with other ongoing
medical conditions are at greater risk of developing serious health effects.
Risk of serious health effects also increases with age.
Last year, fourteen Canadians died from West Nile virus. Others who get symptoms
related to this virus - some young and healthy - have had to deal with severe
long-term health effects. That is why it is so important to protect yourself
from being bitten by mosquitoes by applying insect repellent and wearing protective
clothing when you go outside. Removing sources of standing water like flower
pots, pool covers, etc. where mosquitoes breed, from around your home, and ensuring
your screens are in good repair will also help to protect you and your family.
It is a small price to pay for good health.
|
This article was prepared by 
