mosquito bite can turn into something much more severe if you are infected with West Nile virus. Mosquitoes transmit this virus after they bite an infected bird and then bite a person. While not all people with infected mosquito bites will get the disease, it can be a very severe occurrence for those with weakened immune systems and the elderly. If it is diagnosed and treated quickly, the outlook for West Nile virus recovery is good, according to the National Institutes of Health.
What Are the Symptoms of West Nile Virus?
West Nile virus symptoms vary in severity. Severe symptoms occur in one out of 150 infected people, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Examples of severe symptoms include:
- fever
- confusion
- convulsions
- muscle weakness
- vision loss
- numbness
- paralysis
- comatose state
- fever
- headache
- body aches
- nausea
- vomiting
- swollen lymph glands
- rash on your chest, stomach, and/or back
What Causes West Nile Virus?
Infected mosquitoes typically spread West Nile virus. The mosquito first bites an infected bird and then bites a human or other animal. In rare, isolated incidents, blood transfusions, organ transplants, breastfeeding, or pregnancy can transfer the virus and spread the illness. West Nile virus is not, however, spread by kissing or touching another person.
How Is West Nile Virus Treated?
Because a virus causes the condition, West Nile virus does not have a medical cure. However, you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, to relieve muscle aches and headaches that can accompany West Nile virus.
If you experience severe symptoms, such as brain swelling, your physician may give you intravenous fluids and medications to minimize potential infections.
If you experience severe symptoms, such as brain swelling, your physician may give you intravenous fluids and medications to minimize potential infections.
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