West Nile fever first appeared in the United States back in 1999 but recent reports reveal the virus has entered Europe.
The virus – a relative of the Zika and yellow fever viruses – causes symptoms similar to the flu and is spread by infected mosquitos.
It is a potentially serious illness with about one in 150 infected people developing severe symptoms.
Symptoms of the West Nile virus can last for as short as a few days but some have lasted for several weeks with approximately 80% of people being infected showing no symptoms at all.
So should we be worried about it?
What is West Nile virus?
West Nile virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne disease commonly spread to people through the bite of infected mosquitos.
Cases of WNV occur during mosquito season, which starts in the summer and continues through to autumn.
Although no cases have been reported in the UK, Italy has seen a sudden spike in infections.
As of August 17, the country has reported a total of 228 cases of West Nile virus in 2022.
Thirteen patients have died this year in Italy after being infected with the virus, with a further two deaths in Greece and three in Serbia.
Most cases have been found in northern Italy, with Padova in Veneto being declared the hotspot for infections.
Should we be worried about West Nile virus?
In the US, West Nile fever is predominant and it is now found in every continent except Antartica.
Latest reports have revealed a surge in infections in Europe.
Although rare, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) warned of some 292 cases reported in Europe this year.
Other countries that have reported infections include Greece, Serbia, Slovakia, and Romania.
Symptoms of West Nile virus
Flu-like symptoms are most common with this virus alongside a skin rash and feeling ill.
Other signs include:
- Muscle weakness
- Confusion
- Seizures
- Headaches
- Neck stiffness
- Stupor
- Disorientation
- Tremors
- Vision loss
- Numbness
- Paralysis.
“The infection usually goes away on its own without treatment,” said the NHS.
It added: “People aged over 50 or with another condition, such as cancer, diabetes or high blood pressure, are more at risk of getting serious ill.”
The national health body reassured the virus is not contagious, with a person being infected only by “being bitten by an infected mosquito”.
To lower your risk of contracting West Nile virus, avoid being bitten by mosquitos by covering your skin and using insect repellant.
You should also stay away from breeding grounds like standing water.
If you develop any symptoms of West Nile virus within two weeks of being in an affected area, contact your doctor (or another medical professional if abroad).
