West Nile fever

Cases of West Nile fever was recently reported in Kerala.

About the West Nile fever:

• West Nile fever is a viral infection caused by the West Nile virus (WNV) and is primarily transmitted by mosquitoes, specifically the Culex species.
• It was first isolated in 1937 in Uganda’s West Nile district, which is how it got its name.
• The virus is commonly found in Africa, Europe, the Middle East, North America, and West Asia.
• Birds serve as the natural hosts.

Symptoms:

• While about 80% of cases are asymptomatic, symptoms like fever, headache, body aches, and fatigue can be observed in individuals with weakened immune systems or in the elderly.

Ref: Source