West Nile fever: alert for three districts in state, seek treatment if these symptoms appear

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Health Minister Veena George has informed the districts that West Nile fever has been reported in Malappuram, Kozhikode and Thrissur districts. Mosquito control and source destruction are important to prevent West Nile fever. In a high-level meeting of the health department held last week, instructions were given to intensify pre-monsoon cleaning activities. District Medical Officers have been instructed to intensify the activities. It was also directed to carry out coordinated activities with the district administrations and local self-government bodies.

District Vector Control Unit collected samples from different parts and sent them for testing. It was also directed to strengthen awareness activities. Since 2011, West Nile has been reported in various districts in the state. There is no need to worry. The minister also requested that anyone with fever or other symptoms should seek treatment immediately.

West Nile fever presents with symptoms similar to Japanese fever. But the disease is not as serious as Japanese fever. But be careful. Importance should be given to the destruction of the source of the mosquito. Individuals should keep their house and surroundings clean. Make sure that the water does not stagnate.

What is West Nile?

West Nile is an infectious disease spread by the Culex mosquito. Not as dangerous as Japanese fever. While Japanese fever usually affects children under 18 years of age, West Nile fever is seen in adults. Both are mosquito-borne diseases. A vaccine is available for Japanese fever.

Contagion

West Nile fever is mainly transmitted by the Culex mosquito. Birds are also infected. This virus was first discovered in 1937 in Uganda. The disease was first reported in the state in 2011 in Alappuzha.

Symptoms

The main symptoms are headache, fever, muscle aches, dizziness, and memory loss. Most people who are infected often have no symptoms. Some people experience symptoms like fever, headache, vomiting and itching. In one percent of people, brain damage can cause unconsciousness and sometimes death. But the death rate is relatively low compared to Japanese fever.

Prevention and treatment

As there is no medicine or vaccine available against the West Nile virus, symptomatic treatment and prevention are key. Avoiding mosquito bites is the best form of prevention. Wearing clothing that covers the body, using mosquito nets, applying mosquito repellent ointments, using mosquito nets and electric mosquito repellent devices are effective. Also important is mosquito source destruction. Self-medication can complicate the disease. It is curable if treated early.