What is West Nile Virus

What exactly is West Nile Virus? Our medical encyclopedia can get you started in your journey to learn more about this condition. Continue your research by clicking a new category in the left navigation.

Learn

Take Action

West Nile Virus Definition


West Nile virus is typically transmitted by mosquitoes. It first appeared in the US in 1999. It has been found most often in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Most infections with this virus cause no illness at all. However, about 1/5 of people infected with the virus suffer flu-like symptoms including:

  • Fever
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Headache
  • Fatigue

About 1/150 people infected with the virus develop neurologic symptoms including:

  • Encephalitis -inflammation of the brain
  • Meningitis -inflammation of the membrane covering the brain and spinal cord
  • Poliomyelitis -paralysis combined with fever and meningitis

Encephalitis

© 2009 Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.


Latest Articles

There are no articles are available for West Nile Virus.



Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright ©2013 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved. Source: EBSCO