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Symptoms bug
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Mosquitos And West Nile Virus

Most people infected with West Nile virus will not become ill. Among those who have symptoms, the disease tends to resemble flu. Symptoms may include:

  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Body aches
  • (Occasionally) skin rash or swollen lymph glands

Sometimes the virus causes an inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) or its lining (meningitis). People can become very ill, or even die. Symptoms may include:

  • Headache
  • High fever
  • Stiff neck
  • Vision loss
  • Disorientation or stupor
  • Coma
  • Tremors or convulsions
  • Muscle weakness
  • Numbness
  • Paralysis

Anyone who has these symptoms, or long-lasting flu symptoms, should seek medical care immediately. Blood tests can reveal whether West Nile virus is present.

Currently, there is no vaccine against West Nile for use in people. Nor is there a specific treatment.

Health care professionals can provide "supportive" care to help your body get through the illness. In severe cases, this treatment can include:

  • Fluids through a vein (intravenous)
  • Medicine to control fever
  • Treatment of additional infections such as pneumonia
  • Oxygen by nasal prongs or face mask


Last updated February 11, 2008


   
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