West Nile Fever Outbreak Alarms Global Health Authorities

Why in the news?

Ukraine faces a severe outbreak of West Nile virus (WNV), raising health concerns as the death toll rises. With transmission peaking between summer and autumn, numerous countries report cases, prompting global health authorities to monitor the situation closely.

West Nile Fever Outbreak Alarms Global Health Authorities

About West Nile Fever (WNV):

  • Caused by West Nile virus (WNV), an RNA virus from the Flaviviridae family.
  • Transmitted to humans by infected mosquitoes, especially Culex species.
  • Birds serve as reservoir hosts.
  • Found in Africa, Europe, Middle East, North America, and West Asia.

Transmission and Symptoms

  • Transmitted via mosquito bites or contact with infected animals.
  • Asymptomatic in 80% of cases.
  • Symptoms: fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting, and rash.
  • Severe cases may cause neurological issues like paralysis, coma, or muscle weakness.

Treatment and Initiatives

  • Supportive care for severe cases, no human vaccine.
  • India’s efforts: National Vector-Borne Disease Control Programme, Integrated Vector Management (IVM).

What are Viruses?

  • Viruses are parasitic entities without cells, unclassifiable within any kingdom.
  • They are sub-microscopic infectious agents, ranging from 20 to 400 nm.
  • Viruses can only replicate inside host cells of living organisms.

They infect all life forms, including humans, animals, plants, and bacteria.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times