West Nile Virus

West Nile Virus in Iowa – How scared should we be?

Darin Eklund PA-C
Subhash Sahai, MD

Recent reports of dead birds infected with the West Nile Virus, and concerns about decreased funding for mosquito spraying, have raised the issue of protection from this disease as we spend our summer working and playing outdoors.

West Nile Virus is typically transmitted between birds and mosquitoes. An infected mosquito can transmit the virus to a mammal including, of course, humans. There is no evidence that the virus can be transmitted from human to human contact.
Symptoms begin about 5-15 days post-bite. The peak time of year for infections is August and September, but even in an area where mosquitoes and birds are known to be carrying the virus, the risk of human infection is quite low. Only about 1 in 5 persons infected with WNV will show signs. These are usually symptoms like one would see with a mild case of the flu: headaches, body aches, nausea, skin rashes, and eye pain. More severe infections occur in only about 1 in 150 cases and symptoms can include severe headaches, light sensitivity, neck stiffness, and significant muscle weakness or even paralysis. In rare cases this infection can be fatal. Those at highest risk for severe infections are the elderly and people with suppressed immune systems. Children are NOT considered to be at high risk.

There is no “antibiotic” to treat WNV. Similar to other viral illnesses, the usual treatment involves anti-inflammatory medications, rest, and fluids. In severe cases, hospitalization may be needed for hydration, pain control and possibly for support of the muscles of breathing. If you have signs of a WNV infection you need to see your health care provider so an examination and appropriate blood tests can be done. This is not only to help plan your treatment, but also so the government can monitor the progression of the virus across the country.

The best treatment for WNV is prevention. Cleaning sources of standing water such as water barrels or clogged rain-gutters around your home eliminates mosquito breeding grounds. Bites can be prevented by wearing long-sleeve shirts and pants, and by applying an insect repellant with permethrin or 35% DEET to your clothes. For children, repellants should have no more than 10% DEET, and insect repellant use in not recommended at all for children less than 2 years old.

This article was for informative purposes only, and is not intended as a specific recommendation for treatment. If you have further questions about this topic, please contact the Webster City Medical Clinic at (515) 832-6123.