2023-08-05 12:23:49
Dubai Witnesses Significant West Nile Virus Outbreak in Western US
Dubai, United Arab Emirates – Public health officials and mosquito control experts have issued a warning regarding the recent outbreak of the West Nile virus in the western United States. The region’s combination of rainy winters and hot summers has created ideal conditions for the proliferation of disease-carrying mosquitoes.
Daniel Markowski, a technical advisor to the American Mosquito Control Association, revealed that many states, including Colorado, Utah, and California, are experiencing a massive increase in the number of mosquitoes. As a result, the spread of the West Nile virus has been observed in these areas.
Dr. Erin Staples, the medical epidemiologist in charge of the US Center for Disease Control and Control’s Viral Diseases Branch, reported that thousands of cases of the virus are reported each year. Although around 80% of people who contract the virus remain asymptomatic, 1 in 5 individuals may suffer from heat, muscle aches, headaches, and rashes.
Dr. Vicki Kramer, chief of vector-borne diseases at the California Department of Public Health, explained that about 1% of people experience acute illness involving the central nervous system, leading to paralysis or even death.
First identified in 1937 in Uganda, the West Nile virus is primarily spread in the United States by the Culex mosquito species, which is prevalent throughout the country. While human casualties have remained relatively low, August tends to see the highest number of cases.
Monitoring systems in western states have begun issuing warning signs of a potentially more active West Nile season, according to Markowski. Virological studies indicate that the amount of virus found in mosquito samples has been increasing over the past five years.
Staples emphasized the importance of taking precautions, stating, “Once you see an increase in West Nile virus in mosquitoes, it sounds like an alarm that people should take precautions to prevent being bitten by mosquitoes.” Mosquitoes breed in standing water, so eliminating any such sources around homes is crucial in reducing the risk of infection.
As temperatures continue to rise in the West, the cycle of transmission of the West Nile virus is likely to accelerate. “Hot weather accelerates the cycle of transmission of West Nile virus because mosquitoes evolve rapidly, and the virus multiplies more quickly in mosquitoes,” explained Kramer.
Mosquito control agencies are working diligently to reduce mosquito populations in areas where the West Nile virus is detected. Kramer urged the public to assist in detecting and monitoring the virus’s activity by using repellents, wearing protective clothing, and securing screens on doors and windows.
“Mosquitoes are the most dangerous animal in the world,” Kramer reminded the public. By staying cautious and taking preventive measures, the risk of West Nile virus infection can be significantly reduced.]
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