World Health Organization warns of dangerous West Nile virus. There is an increasing number of cases in Europe. This year, 22 people have died as a result of the disease. Doctors and experts emphasize that the problem cannot be ignored.
West Nile virus has been present in Europe before, but never before on such a scale. It is dangerous to our health because we have such and no other weather conditions. Experts from the World Health Organization alert that hot summer is ideal for insects – we read on tvn24bis.pl.
West Nile virus is transmitted by mosquitoes. Elderly people and those suffering from diabetes are among those most at risk. Patients who have had organ transplants in the past are also at risk.
West Nile virus cases
Since the beginning of 2018, up to 401 infections with the virus causing West Nile fever have been recorded in Europe. The worst situation is in Serbia as many as 126 infections, in Italy – 123 infections, in Greece – 75, in Romania – 31, in Hungary – 39 infected people. As a result of complications, 22 people died.
West Nile fever may be mild or severe. In the first one, it resembles the flu: there is fever, pain in muscles, joints and headache, sometimes enlargement of the lymph nodes. In more severe cases, the symptoms listed are rapid, accompanied by nausea, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, muscle weakness, and disturbances in gait, coordination and consciousness. Complications may be meningitis and constant states of chronic muscular ailments, headaches, memory and concentration disorders, chronic fatigue, and depression induced in this way. It is worth mentioning that the mosquitoes that carry hemorrhagic fever viruses belong to the species Aedes aegyptii and Aedes albopictus, which are permanently absent in Poland, but more and more often appear in our country due to global warming.
How to avoid West Nile virus infection?
In areas where the risk of infection is increasing, it is recommended that you use insect repellent, wear long pants and light-colored clothing, and stay indoors at sunrise and sunset.
Based on: tvn24bis.pl