West Nile Virus
About West Nile Virus1
Mosquito transmission
West Nile virus (WNV) is carried by mosquitoes and transmitted via a bite from an infected mosquito. It can infect humans, birds, mosquitoes, horses and some other mammals.
Potentially serious or fatal disease
In humans, it can cause potentially serious or fatal diseases including West Nile Fever and West Nile Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). People typically develop symptoms between 3 and 14 days after they are bitten by the infected mosquito.
Rapid U.S. spread
WNV is a flavivirus commonly found in Africa, West Asia and the Middle East. It has also been found in Europe and more recently, in the United States and Canada.
WNV was first recognized in the United States in 1999 as the cause of severe illness and fatalities in humans in metropolitan New York City. The virus has since spread rapidly throughout the country.
Early detection designed to improve blood safety
The PROCLEIX® West Nile Virus Assay is currently supported under a clinical protocol for investigational use only. It is specifically designed to meet published FDA performance guidelines1 for direct detection of the West Nile virus in donated blood, plasma, organs and tissue.
No specific treatment
There is no specific treatment for West Nile virus infection.
Avoiding mosquitoes best prevention
The simplest way to avoid contracting WNV virus is to avoid contact with mosquitoes and use mosquito repellents to avoid mosquito bites. As mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water, draining standing water around the house, such as in flower pots, rain gutters and swimming pool covers, can help to reduce the mosquito population and slow the spread of WNV.
2005 West Nile Virus Activity in the United States
This map reflects surveillance findings Reported to CDC between January 1, 2005 through November 15, 2005.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Website - West Nile Virus Page. Accessed Aug. 4, 2005.