​ Infectious Diseases and Microbiology - West Niles Encephalitis( West Nile Virus)

​ Infectious Diseases and Microbiology - West Niles Encephalitis( West Nile Virus) 

The West Nile (WN) virus is a member of the flavivirus family that causes West Nile encephalitis. The bite of an infected mosquito spreads the WN virus. Transplacental, breast-feeding, organ transplantation, and blood transfusion are further recognized modes of transfer. Infections with the WN virus typically come out in the US in the late summer and early fall.
 
WN virus infections are frequently asymptomatic. The spectrum of clinical manifestations of sickness might vary from vague flu-like symptoms to encephalitis. Higher fever, headache, nausea, malaise, myalgia, backache, stiff neck, and disorientation are signs of more serious illnesses. The total mortality rate of WN is approximately 10%, with older adults and young children being more at danger.

An infected mosquito injects the WN virus directly into the bloodstream, where it first targets monocyte-macrophage lineage cells before moving on to the brain. Viral particles enter the CNS through the choroid plexus or capillary endothelial cells. Interferon resistance is a mediating factor in pathogenesis. Infection control is aided by both cell-mediated immunity and antibodies.

The identification of virus-specific IgM in serum or CSF allows for the diagnosis of WN virus.
A vaccination or specialized therapy for WN virus infection is not available. Important preventive steps include wearing protective gear, controlling mosquito vectors, and using DEET-containing insect repellent.
Notes: The WN virus shares antigens with the Murray Valley encephalitis virus (Australia), the Japanese encephalitis virus (Asia), and the St. Louis encephalitis virus (North America, Central America, and South America).