Over the past three months, Kyiv has experienced an outbreak of West Nile fever, a serious viral disease transmitted through mosquito bites. According to the Department of Health of the Kyiv City State Administration, 17 people with this diagnosis were admitted to the Saint Michael's Clinical Hospital, three of whom died due to severe complications.
Alarming statistics and causes of the disease
Among the patients are 10 men and 7 women from different districts of the capital, as well as two people from Kyiv and Cherkasy regions. All patients required inpatient treatment due to the severe condition caused by the disease. As reported by the director of the Health Department, Valentina Ginzburg, three patients could not be saved due to serious complications, including meningoencephalitis.
"Unfortunately, severe forms of West Nile fever can lead to meningoencephalitis, which is life-threatening," Ginsburg said.
Characteristics of the virus
West Nile fever is classified as a particularly dangerous disease, assigned to the IV risk group according to WHO international standards. The virus has a similar structure to viruses that cause encephalitis, as well as the virus of dengue fever. The main reservoir of the virus is migratory birds, in whose blood the virus can persist for 14 to 200 days. Mosquitoes that carry the virus can transmit it to humans and animals.
Symptoms
The disease begins acutely - with chills and a rapid increase in temperature, accompanied by symptoms of intoxication. The febrile period lasts from 2 to 6 days. In severe cases, meningitis or encephalitis may develop. Since there is currently no specific treatment for West Nile fever, therapy is symptomatic, and it is important to see a doctor immediately at the first symptoms of the disease.
Prevention tips
To reduce the risk of the disease, experts advise using mosquito nets, repellents and wearing clothes that cover the body as much as possible, especially when walking in parks and forests. The danger of the disease decreases with a decrease in air temperature and the disappearance of mosquitoes.
"Preserving health and preventing illness requires simple but effective measures. Take care of yourself and your health, following the preventive recommendations", emphasized Valentyna Ginzburg.
