In the state of Kerala, recent reports have highlighted cases of West Nile fever, a disease caused by the West Nile virus (WNV).

While this virus can lead to severe neurological conditions in humans, it's notable that many infected individuals may not exhibit any symptoms at all.

Kerala health authorities have identified cases of West Nile fever in areas including Thrissur, Kozhikode, and Malappuram, with Kozhikode reporting five cases.

Samples from infected individuals, including children, were sent for testing to the National Institute of Virology in Pune. Fortunately, these individuals have since recovered and returned home.

What exactly is West Nile Fever? It stems from the West Nile virus, a pathogen commonly found in regions spanning Africa, Europe, the Middle East, North America, and West Asia. Belonging to the flavivirus genus, it's part of the Japanese encephalitis antigenic complex within the Flaviviridae family.

The virus was initially discovered in Uganda in 1937, and Kerala saw its first case in 2011, with subsequent fatalities recorded in 2019 and 2022.

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Symptoms of West Nile Fever vary, with many individuals experiencing no symptoms at all. Transmission primarily occurs through mosquito bites, with these insects becoming carriers after feeding on infected birds.

Symptoms can include fever, headache, fatigue, body aches, nausea, vomiting, skin rash, and swollen lymph glands.

In severe cases, symptoms may escalate to include high fever, neck stiffness, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, and paralysis. 

The risk of severe illness is present in approximately 1 in 150 infected persons, with those over 50 and immunocompromised individuals being at the highest risk. Symptoms typically last between 3 to 14 days.

Currently, there is no vaccine for West Nile virus. Treatment primarily focuses on supportive care, including hospitalization, intravenous fluids, respiratory support, and prevention of secondary infections.

Vigilance and preventative measures against mosquito bites remain crucial in areas where the virus is prevalent.

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