WNV transmission
5
plain
2019-07-23T17:22:06-07:00
Transmission: WNV is an arbovirus related to Dengue, Zika, and Yellow Fever that are also found in Latin America. WNV is unique because unlike viruses such as Dengue and Zika, WNV does not have a particular mosquito species that transmits the virus. WNV is naturally maintained between birds and mosquitoes with spillover into other species.
Symptoms: Most cases are asymptomatic and severe cases typically result in neurological damage.
Host: Can be transferred to humans through consuming infected animals. WNV has a wide range of species, including 45 species and 8 genera, capable of transmitting. However natural transmission may be different than in the laboratory settings. Most species possesses a unique role in terms of transmission such as some mosquito species are more active in northern parts of a country compared to other species that primarily operate in the southern parts.
Treatment: Currently no treatment exists for WNV. Supportive care is available for those infected.
Prevention: Avoid mosquito bites by wearing approved bug repellant, using bug nets, and coving skin. Travelers and community members equipped with knowledge of the endemicity play a large role in the prevention.
