Reading the news, the West Nile Virus might have you frightened and anxious to know if you are risk for it and if so, what the symptoms are. If you know what the West Nile Virus symptoms are, then you can know enough to seek treatment when you think you might be suffering from it.
Key Points
- Mild-to-moderate and severe cases of West Nile can have different symptoms.
- There is no cure for West Nile, but most people who suffer from it will make a full recovery.
- Around 10% of those with severe cases of the disease will die.
West Nile Virus Symptoms
There are two kinds of West Nile virus symptoms. There are the symptoms for the mild to moderate cases of West Nile virus, and there are symptoms for severe cases of West Nile.
When you suffer from a mild to moderate case, your West Nile virus symptoms will include a high fever, a headache, back pain, muscle aches, and a sore throat. Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and a lack of appetite. These are similar to symptoms for the flu, but the way they interact is different. If you have these symptoms, then you need to seek medical treatment immediately, especially if you think you might be suffering from West Nile virus.
There are additional West Nile Virus symptoms for severe cases of West Nile. If you are suffering any of these symptoms, you need to seek medical treatment immediately. The West Nile virus symptoms for severe cases are muscle weakness and a stiff neck. Other symptoms are general confusion about things around you or a loss of consciousness. These conditions will only get worse as the disease progresses.
Most people with West Nile don't develop symptoms. Severe cases can happen at any age, but are more common in those over 60 and the immunocompromised. About 1 in 150 severe cases develop encephalitis or meningitis. Your health care provider will diagnose West Nile based on your symptoms and whether you have been in an environment that put you at risk for exposure.
What is My Prognosis If I Have West Nile?
West Nile is a difficult disease. As West Nile is a virus, antibiotics won't work. There is currently no vaccine or approved medical treatment for West Nile. Rest and supportive care are the only treatments. In severe cases, intravenous fluid and pain medication may be used. Recovery time varies, but can take as long as a few months in severe cases.
Among those who develop severe West Nile, 10% die. If you think you've been exposed to West Nile, even if you have no symptoms, call your doctor. West Nile is spread through mosquito bites rather than direct contact between two people. Remember that lacking symptoms doesn't necessarily mean you don't have West Nile.
The best treatment for West Nile is prevention. If there is a risk of contracting West Nile in an area you live in or will be traveling to, exercise caution. Use mosquito repellent and wear a long-sleeved shirt and pants. Limit your time outdoors as much as possible. Add mosquito netting to your porch and similar locations. Make sure you do not leave standing water on your property, as this provides a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Use air conditioning when possible, and ensure that any gaps or holes in your window screens are fixed.
If you know the West Nile virus symptoms, you can be on guard for protecting your family from the severe cases of West Nile virus.
Do not take the content of this article as professional medical advice. It's important to exercise due diligence when obtaining relevant information in matters pertaining to your health. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any medical decisions.