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West Nile Virus

West Nile Virus is an infections virus transmitted through mosquito bites. It can lead to serious complications.

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What is West Nile virus?
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by Cleveland Clinic
A virus is a tiny life form that can grow inside a person or animal and may cause illness. West Nile virus is a type of virus endemic in Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia. It has now found its way to the United States, showing up mostly in the eastern states. Learn more about West Nile virus.
What are the symptoms of West Nile virus?
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by Cleveland Clinic
In most cases, West Nile virus causes no illness or a mild self limiting febrile illness. In some cases, the virus can cause a mild illness called West Nile fever. The symptoms of West Nile fever resemble flu symptoms and may include: Fever Headache Body aches Skin rash Swollen glands Less frequently, West Nile virus can cause a more serious illness, such as West Nile meningo-encephalitis...
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Who is at risk for West Nile virus?
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by Cleveland Clinic
People who spend time outdoors in warm weather are at risk for mosquito bites, but only a small percentage of mosquitoes carry the West Nile virus. Among those that are bitten by infected mosquitoes, less than 30 percent will develop even mild symptoms. However, elderly people and those with weakened immune systems may be less able to fight the virus and, therefore, more likely to become ill from ...
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How do you get West Nile virus?
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by Cleveland Clinic
The virus spreads by mosquitoes that become infected when they bite birds carrying the virus. When an infected mosquito then bites a person or animal, the virus is injected through the mosquito's saliva into the bite wound. In addition, four novel (non-mosquito) modes of transmission have been documented: through the placenta from mother to baby, through breast-feeding, through the transplantati...
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How common is West Nile virus?
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by Cleveland Clinic
Many people get mosquito bites, but few get ill from West Nile virus. Most people infected with the virus have very mild or no symptoms. Less than 1 percent of people infected with West Nile virus get seriously ill. Learn more about how common West Nile virus is.
How do I know if I have West Nile virus?
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by Cleveland Clinic
Most symptoms of West Nile virus are mild and will go away as your body fights the infection. However, see your doctor if you have symptoms that don't go away or if they concern you. The doctor may order a blood test to look for evidence of the virus in your blood. Learn more about how to determine if one has West Nile virus.
How is West Nile virus treated?
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by Cleveland Clinic
There is no specific treatment for West Nile virus. Treatment plans focus on relieving any bothersome symptoms, such as body aches or headache. People with severe illness may need to stay in the hospital to receive supportive therapies - such as intravenous fluids and breathing support - while their bodies work to fight the virus. Learn more about the treatment of West Nile virus.
Is there a vaccine for West Nile virus?
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by Cleveland Clinic
There is currently no vaccine approved for use in humans; however, researchers are actively seeking to develop a vaccine. Learn more about whether there is a vaccine for West Nile virus.
What is the outlook for people with West Nile virus?
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by Cleveland Clinic
Most people with West Nile virus recover fully with no complications. Learn more about the outlook for people with West Nile virus.
Can West Nile virus be prevented?
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by Cleveland Clinic
The virus itself cannot be prevented, but you can take steps to reduce your risk of mosquito bites. The US Centers for Disease and Control offer these suggestions: Apply insect repellent with the ingredient DEET to your exposed skin before going outdoors. (Use care when applying insect repellent to children. Do not put repellent on their hands, and be careful to avoid their mouths and eyes.) S...
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