A mosquito-borne viral disease known as West Nile Virus causes most cases of human West Nile infection.
In fact, it can also be transmitted through animals and birds. Most cases of human West Nile Virus do not produce symptoms or signs, but some people do develop minor ones such as headache and fever.
However, some patients develop a more serious condition that includes fever and inflammation of the brain or spinal cord. Patients who experience these symptoms typically consult their physician right away to be tested for West Nile Virus symptoms. If you develop West Nile Virus symptoms, seek medical attention immediately to avoid severe complications from occurring.
If you believe you may have contracted West Nile Virus, you need to see your physician immediately.
The sooner you get treatment for yourself, the better chance you have of recovering and preventing further problems from occurring. In most cases, you will be given antibiotics to help clear up the virus and treat any existing symptoms. If the infection is not treated early enough, you can develop a potentially life-threatening condition.
Before you seek treatment for yourself, let your medical staff know about any possible symptoms you might be experiencing. These symptoms include headache and fever.
You should be aware that even if you are diagnosed with West Nile Virus and you do not have any symptoms, it is important to be tested because it can be passed on between humans and other animals. If you or anyone you know has been tested positive for West Nile Virus, seek medical care immediately for the recommended treatment and follow up care.
When you think you may have contracted West Nile Virus, you should make sure you take precautions to protect yourself and others. Wear protective clothing to protect yourself from mosquito bites. Wear insect repellent while outside in areas where mosquitoes are abundant.
It is important to discuss your symptoms with your physician, as these symptoms can be indicative of a much more serious illness.
West Nile Virus symptoms are not always easy to identify in the early stages, but if you keep a regular doctor and medical record, you will be able to know what to look for and get treatment quickly.
The most common West Nile Virus symptoms include high fever, nausea and vomiting, swelling of the ankles and stomach, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea. However, there are other West Nile Virus symptoms that can include rash, joint pain, fatigue and muscle aches, muscle weakness and blurred vision.
There are ways to avoid developing West Nile Virus. Keep mosquitoes at bay using natural methods such as mosquito traps. You can prevent mosquitoes from getting into your home and from spreading disease by placing screens around entrances, swimming pools and bird baths.
You can also use mosquito repellent to keep mosquitoes out of your home.
These repellents can come in the form of sprays, lotions, and pills that are either placed on the skin or sprayed in the air.
One of the best ways to prevent getting West Nile Virus is to take precautions to avoid contact with mosquitoes, their eggs and their saliva. Avoid playing around with water in puddles or standing near stagnant water sources.
Make sure you wash your hands thoroughly after touching objects like cars, tools, clothes or anything that might have come into contact with the saliva of mosquitoes before touching them again. Wear clothes made of cotton or breathable material if you are going to be outdoors.
Prevention is the best way to combat West Nile Virus, but if you are already infected, there are treatments available that can kill the virus so it no longer lives in your system. If you experience a rash or any other symptoms, seek medical attention as soon as possible.