A professor has raised concerns about the rapid transmission of the West Nile Virus (WNV) from North Africa to Ibiza in just 48 hours, thanks to strong air currents that carry infected mosquitoes. While the virus is not prevalent in the UK, it poses a significant threat in many countries. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that although most individuals infected with WNV do not display symptoms, approximately one out of every 150 people develop a severe and potentially fatal illness.
At a conference on viral diseases, Dr. Luis Enjuanes, a research professor at the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), emphasized how climate change contributes to the spread of WNV and other viral diseases. As evidence of this danger, the virus has already been detected in three villages in Seville, Spain, causing alarm among health officials. The Directorate General of Public Health and Pharmaceutical Management of the Andalusian Regional Government confirmed the presence of the virus in mosquitoes captured in Guillena, El Castillo de las Guardas, and La Puebla del Río.
WNV primarily spreads through the bites of infected mosquitoes. These insects become carriers of the virus when they feed on infected birds and subsequently transmit it to people and other animals through bites. The mosquito species responsible for WNV transmission is most active at dawn and dusk. Spanish experts have advised taking precautionary measures such as wearing light-colored, protective clothing, avoiding strong fragrances, and using registered repellents.
While the majority of people infected with WNV experience no symptoms, warning signs may include flu-like symptoms, a skin rash, feeling sick, muscle weakness, confusion, and seizures. Although most individuals recover within a few days, less than 1% of those infected develop neurological complications such as encephalitis and meningitis, which can be life-threatening.
It is crucial to seek medical advice if any symptoms associated with WNV are observed. The threat of the virus serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in monitoring and combating the spread of infectious diseases.
Sources:
– NHS
– Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
– World Health Organization
