It is
that time of the year again when the mosquitoes are out in full
force. Those who live near bayous, lakes or even have a swimming pool
know what a pain mosquitoes can be this time of year.
Over the
last few years, the United States has seen an increase of a virus
that is carried by mosquitoes. That virus is the West Nile Virus.
Many times, birds will be found dead from the virus, but the last few
years West Nile has been found in humans as well.
We
recently went camping and I have to admit we came home looking like
food for the mosquitoes. Despite the amount of spray and coils lit,
we still found ourselves being eaten up by the pests. This, of
course, has led to panic for our hypochondriac family. After much
research, this is the information you need to know if you fear that
you have West Nile.
Go To
Doctor
If you
truly suspect that you have it: go to the doctor immediately. Only
they can diagnose the west nile virus.
Symptoms
It
usually takes three to 14 days before symptoms appear. What to watch
out for is: fever, skin rash, headache, body ache, pain in your eyes,
tiredness, stomachaches, not hungry and swollen glands. If you have
the mild form of the virus you could have fever for five days, a
headache for ten days and feel tired for over a month.
Sever
infections
The West
Nile Virus can cause some dangerous conditions in some people.
Symptoms to watch out for are stiff neck, tremors or convulsions,
paralysis, coma, high fever, and disorientation.
Now the
good news, most people (80 out of 100 to be exact) do not ever have
symptoms. Elderly and children are the ones who have the highest
chances of being effected by the virus. West Nile also tends to go
away on its own. Only severe cases can cause brain or spinal cord
injury leading to hospitalization.
For the most part, if you contract
West Nile, your body can fight it off. Therefore, there is no reason
to panic. If you think you have contracted the virus, call your
doctor and schedule to be tested. Then rest up so your body can do
its job.
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