2023-08-25 03:00:21
“West Nile virus claims nine lives in Europe this year as global warming aids mosquito spread”
By Paul Notelteirs
August 25, 2023
Europe has seen a rise in deaths caused by the West Nile virus this year, with at least nine fatalities reported. The increasing spread of the virus is attributed to global warming, which creates more favorable conditions for mosquitoes to thrive. Virologist Johan Neyts from KU Leuven emphasizes that only a small percentage of those infected actually develop symptoms.
The West Nile virus is primarily spread through mosquitoes, with birds being the natural host. Humans and horses can also be infected but do not contribute significantly to the virus’s spread. The virus was first identified in Uganda and was mainly confined to parts of Africa until the 1950s. In 1999, an outbreak occurred in New York, which later spread throughout the United States and Canada, possibly transmitted by migratory birds. Southern and central European countries have also reported cases of the virus for several years.
Symptoms of West Nile fever, which occurs in about 20% of those infected, include headaches, muscle aches, and fever. In more severe cases, the virus can affect the brain, leading to meningitis. Approximately 1 in 150 patients with neurological symptoms die as a result of the infection.
Italy and Hungary have already reported six deaths from West Nile fever this summer. However, experts believe that the number of infections is not alarmingly increasing. This year, 125 infections have been reported in Europe, with Italy and Greece being the most affected countries. Considering that only a fifth of infected individuals develop symptoms, the total number of infections is estimated to be around 600. However, this could be an underestimate as some cases may go unreported if individuals mistake the symptoms for a regular fever. According to the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control, a total of nine deaths from West Nile fever have been recorded this year. With the recent cases in Italy and Hungary, the death toll is estimated to have risen to about fifteen.
The impact of global warming on the spread of the virus is evident, as warmer and more humid climates provide ideal conditions for mosquito breeding and faster transmission of the virus. However, Neyts highlights that the rapid outbreak in the United States since 1999 occurred without the climatic conditions being ideal for the virus. Although climate warming may not be the sole determining factor for the spread of West Nile fever, Neyts suggests that further problems may arise as temperatures continue to rise in European regions.
To protect themselves from the virus, holidaymakers are advised to take precautions against mosquito bites. Travelers from central or southern Europe who experience sudden fever or illness should seek medical advice. Immediate medical attention is necessary for those who develop neurological symptoms. However, Neyts reassures that there is no need for excessive worry when traveling to countries like Italy.
Regarding treatment, mild cases of West Nile fever can be managed with typical fever and pain medications, as there are currently no specific antiviral drugs available. Research is underway to develop antivirals that target West Nile virus, as well as other flaviviruses such as dengue, Zika, and tick-borne encephalitis. Vaccines for these flaviviruses are also being investigated but are not yet widely available. Effective vaccines already exist for tick-borne encephalitis, a virus mainly transmitted by ticks in alpine regions and Scandinavia.
In light of the increasing cases of West Nile virus in Europe, it is crucial for authorities and individuals to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent further spread and protect public health.
Read also: [Related news or articles about West Nile virus or mosquito-borne diseases]]
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