West Nile Virus - Spain

West Nile Virus – Spain

September 4, 2021
< 1 min read

At least 5 cases of West Nile Virus have been detected in Seville Spain. Of these, 1 resulted in death and 2 individuals have recently been hospitalized with dire prognostics.

Circumstances are unknown.

5 cases this summer in Seville so far, 1 death and 2 current hospitalizations.

The government recommends people use mosquito nets, avoid being outside at dusk and dawn, leaving lights off as well as avoiding strong perfumes.

Photo: Many types of mosquitoes are vectors for Jamestown Canyon virus.

West Nile virus has been the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the United States. No vaccines for humans exist to prevent, nor do specific medications to treat it exist.

West Nile virus is primarily transmitted by mosquitoes, mostly species of Culex and related to Zika, dengue and yellow fever viruses.

In humans, West Nile virus can cause a disease known as West Nile fever. Approximately 80% of infected people have few or no symptom, while around 20% of people develop mild symptoms (such as fever, headache, vomiting, or a rash), and less than 1% of people develop severe symptoms (such as encephalitis or meningitis)

The virus was discovered in Uganda in 1937 and was first detected in North America in 1999. West Nile Virus has been reported in Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia, and North America.

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