What you need to know about West Nile?

Mosquito-borne infections often aren’t a problem in the UK. Zika virus, Malaria and Japanese encephalitis are quite rare. But, during the mosquito season, this isn’t how we should treat West Nile virus. The virus may have the potential to cause an epidemic in the UK, but during the summer it can infect a substantial amount of people. When testing the mosquitoes, each and every corner of the country has presented some risk of West Nile.

What are the Symptoms of West Nile? Like all the other mosquito-borne infections, most people who are infected with West Nile virus won’t show any symptoms. After exposure to the illness, signs will appear after almost two weeks. Those initial symptoms can include a headache, nausea, rash, fatigue, abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhoea. Even without proper treatment, the minor symptoms can go away on their own within a few weeks.

As a brain infection, West Nile virus can generate far more critical symptoms. Once the virus infects the brain, West Nile can lead to encephalitis or meningitis. In those critical cases, the virus creates disorientation, a stiff neck, high fever, muscle weakness, seizures, coma, and permanent brain damage.

Is There any Vaccine Developed for West Nile?

No. There is not a vaccine to treat West Nile virus infection. For those who suffer symptoms, treatment relies on antibiotics and over-the-counter pain medicine. In severe cases, hospitalisation will be necessary.

How Can I Effectively Avoid the West Nile Virus?

Mosquito bites cannot be possible avoided e time. But, that doesn’t mean you and your family are helpless to bug bites. Here are some tips to overcome risks of West Nile:

● Do not offer any skin areas to mosquitoes to bite. If in an endemic area, wear long pants and sleeves whenever possible.

● Apply a good quality insect repellant with DEET as the active component. This ingredient is completely safe for adults and infants over two months of age.

● Use the mosquito nets. The nets can help when you’re sleeping peacefully or even taking a walk in a garden with your baby in a stroller. A good quality net over the stroller can keep the mosquitos at bay.

● Clean your bird baths and gutters regularly. The mosquitoes like the standing water to grow.

● Travel Clinic in Ashtead has the first-hand information on the West Nile Virus and you can visit them any time to know more about their virus and its prevention.