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Overview
The Blue Nile Virus, otherwise known as the West Nile Virus, is a disease that can be contracted from an infected mosquito. In the United States, wild birds such as the crow and blue jay have carried the virus, and it can spread rapidly through certain types of mosquitoes.
Significance
The Nile virus appeared in the United States in 1999, but was previously detected in some parts of the Middle East, West Asia, North and South Africa and the West Indies. The Nile virus can be transmitted through mosquitoes that bite animals and humans, and immediate symptoms often include a headache, skin rashes or light symptoms of the flu.
Symptoms
Some of the symptoms of the Nile virus include nausea, vomiting, backaches, loss of appetite, swollen glands, fever, diarrhea, muscle aches, fatigue and skin rashes. If these symptoms go undetected or the condition remains untreated for a significant period of time, the infected person may develop a life-threatening illness or experience severe damage to the brain. According to the Center for Disease Control, serious symptoms affect few people with the West Nile Virus; these symptoms may include disorientation, tremors, convulsions or neck stiffness. However, most people experience no symptoms at all.
Treatments
Approximately 20 percent of those who become infected by the Nile virus experience discomfort and the full range of symptoms. However, there are some over-the-counter medications that can help to relieve the pain and discomfort; painkillers such as Tylenol and Advil may help with muscle aches and headaches. Drinking sports beverages can help restore electrolytes and fluids lost from vomiting or diarrhea. In some cases, intravenous therapy of fluids may be necessary.
Misconceptions
The Nile virus cannot be caught from another person, and individuals must protect themselves by wearing insect repellent and taking steps to reduce exposure to mosquitoes. In a very small number of incidences, a mother can pass the virus along to her child when breastfeeding. Mosquito bites are more likely to occur in hot and humid climates, but mosquitoes can also be attracted to puddles of water in more temperate climates and will flock to well-lit areas indoors and outdoors. Wearing socks and long sleeves, lighting lemon eucalyptus candles and sleeping under a mosquito net in the summer are a few ways to protect oneself from being bitten by a mosquito.
Warnings
Individuals who have weakened immune systems or those that are over the age of 50 are particularly vulnerable to experiencing amplified effects of the Nile virus after contracting the infection. The symptoms can be very similar to a flu or cold, and often go undetected. In some extreme cases, the West Nile virus can cause encephalitis, a condition where the brain swells and becomes severely inflamed.
