Dr. Anthony Fauci, former chief medical adviser to the Biden administration, recently landed in the hospital due to West Nile virus, the most common mosquito-borne illness in the U.S. The virus is spread by infected Culex mosquitoes, which bite sick birds and then spread the virus to people through another bite. Symptoms of West Nile include fever, headache, body aches, and vomiting. While most people infected with West Nile do not show symptoms, serious complications such as meningitis and paralysis can occur.
So far this year, 216 human cases of West Nile have been reported in 33 states, with 142 cases resulting in neuroinvasive disease. People over the age of 60 are at higher risk of severe illness from West Nile. Despite there being no specific treatment or vaccine for the virus, common insect repellents like DEET and picaridin can effectively keep mosquitoes at bay.
Experts recommend protecting against West Nile by wearing loose-fitting clothing that covers the arms and legs, using air conditioning, and ensuring that open windows and doors have screens. Additionally, it is important to empty standing water from items like bird baths and flower pots, as these are breeding grounds for mosquitoes. While serious complications from West Nile are rare, it is essential to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites and reduce the risk of infection.
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