West Nile Fever in Kerala 2024

Context

West Nile fever is spreading across the three districts of Kerala–Malappuram, Kozhikode and Thrissur and, Kerala State government has recently issued a warning in the state regarding West Nile fever, a viral illness spread by mosquitoes.

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About West Nile Fever

This West Nile fever is caused by West Nile virus with a single-stranded RNA.

• • Natural hosts: Birds serve as the primary hosts for West Nile virus.

• First outbreak:  This fever was initially discovered in a female resident of the West Nile region of Uganda in 1937.

• West Nile Fever Symptoms: Most people infected with West Nile virus show no symptoms, but some may experience fever, headache, or other mild symptoms. In rare cases, severe illnesses like encephalitis or meningitis can occur.

• Transmission: This fever Spread through Culex  mosquito bites

• • • It Can infect humans, birds, mosquitoes, horses, and certain other mammals
    • Currently, there have been no reported cases of human-to-human transmission.

• West Nile Fever Treatment: There is no vaccine or specific medicine available for humans against West Nile virus.

• • Most people infected with West Nile virus gain lifelong immunity and are protected from future infections. Those with weakened immune systems may have a less effective initial response or may lose immunity over time.

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