What You Need To Know about the Symptoms of West Nile Virus and Who’s Most at Risk
Many people are asymptomatic, but some develop West Nile fever, headache and body aches
Public health figure Anthony Fauci, MD, recently made headlines after being hospitalized with West Nile virus. At 83, Dr. Fauci experienced severe symptoms, including fever and fatigue, and required a week-long hospital stay. Now recovering at home, his case raises concerns about the mosquito-borne virus, which has no specific treatment or vaccine. What are the symptoms of West Nile virus we need to look out for, and who is most at risk?
To understand more about West Nile virus (WNV), including its symptoms and prevention, we spoke to Brynna Connor, MD, board-certified physician and Healthcare Ambassador at NorthWestPharmacy.com.
What is West Nile virus?
“West Nile Virus is a mosquito-borne virus transmitted to humans primarily through the bites of infected mosquitoes,” says Dr. Connor. First identified in Uganda in 1937, WNV spread to various parts of the world in the following decades, including the United States in 1999.
“The virus belongs to the family Flaviviridae, which includes other mosquito-borne illnesses such as the Zika virus, yellow fever and dengue fever,” adds Dr. Connor.
But how do mosquitoes become infected? “Mosquitos bite birds infected with the virus,” explains Dr. Connor. “Birds get the virus by eating other birds and/or mosquitoes infected with the virus or from eating food and/or drinking water that’s contaminated.”
Though rare, WNV can also spread through blood transfusions, organ transplants and from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding.
Common symptoms of West Nile virus
The symptoms of West Nile Virus can vary widely, making it a tricky illness to diagnose. “The majority of people infected with West Nile Virus won’t experience symptoms — according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), eight of 10 people who contract the virus are asymptomatic,” says Dr. Connor.
For the remaining 20 percent of cases, Dr. Connor says they might experience West Nile fever, with “moderate symptoms [including] fever, body and/or joint pain, headache, nausea, vomiting and/or a rash.” These symptoms occur between two to 14 days after you’ve been bitten and usually last between three and six days.
But in rare cases — about one in 150 — “the virus can attack the central nervous system and lead to encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord),” warns Dr. Connor.
Symptoms of these more serious West Nile virus infections include a high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, disorientation, coma, tremors, seizures and paralysis.
What to do if you have symptoms
First, it’s important to differentiate between a simple mosquito bite and a more serious infection. That’s especially true if you develop sudden flu-like symptoms following a mosquito bite.
“There isn’t a vaccine for West Nile virus,” says Dr. Connor. “Treatment is mostly palliative, focusing primarily on managing symptoms. If you think you’ve contracted West Nile virus, consult your physician. They can discuss your symptoms and history of potential exposure to West Nile Virus. And they can do a blood and/or spinal fluid test to determine if you’ve been infected.”
How to prevent West Nile virus
West Nile virus can be more severe for people with weakened immune systems or those over 60 years old. As with any mosquito-borne illness, Dr. Connor says, “limiting exposure to mosquitos is the best way to reduce the risk.” Here are some of her top tips to protect yourself:
- Use insect repellent: Choose a repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus when spending time outdoors.
- Wear protective clothing: Wear “protective clothing such as long sleeves and pants to minimize access to bare skin,” says Dr. Connor.
- Eliminate mosquito breeding grounds: Regularly empty all areas with “stagnant, standing water such as bird baths, gutters and/or flower pots.”
- Avoid peak mosquito hours: Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk. Try to limit your outdoor activities during these times.
- Install screens: Make sure windows and doors have screens to keep mosquitoes out of your home.
This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult your physician before pursuing any treatment plan.
