The West Nile Virus can become a very fatal disease very quickly. It affects the old and the newborn much more fatally than it would a teenager or a young adult. It is believed that the West Nile Virus has become a seasonal disease - becoming more active in the summer and dying out in the fall. There are three many facts about the West Nile Virus. One of the major facts is the symptoms. Another major fact is how the virus spreads itself. And yet another major fact is the treatment of the West Nile Virus.

West Nile Virus Symptoms

The symptoms of the West Nile virus are symptoms of other illnesses. If you have been bitten by mosquitoes and experience these symptoms, or you have been in an area where people and/or animals have been sick with West Nile virus, you can suspect the West Nile virus may be the cause of your symptoms. There are blood tests your health care provider can use to test for signs of West Nile virus.

In most cases no symptoms will be felt at all; in around 27% symptoms of West Nile Fever in children described above will be felt, while in less than 1% of sufferers the neuroinvasive diseases West Nile meningitis and encephalitis are contracted. These are severe diseases but, again, children are less likely to be affected and instead adults over 50 are generally at greater risk. These symptoms of West Nile Virus in children include headaches, muscle weakness, paralysis, neck stiffness and even coma.

What causes West Nile Virus

It mainly infects birds, but is also the cause of a number of conditions in humans and horses, and some other mammals. West Nile virus is a virus mainly transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito.

West Nile Virus Treatment

Cover-up with clothing as much as practical, especially arms, legs and neck

Be aware of peak mosquito biting hours from dusk to dawn, limit outdoor activities during these times if possible

Eliminate standing water around your home as mosquitoes lay their eggs in this environment

Apply insect repellent liberally all over exposed skin. Try using a repellent that contains DEET, a highly potent chemical that protects against insect bites. Make sure you choose a repellent that will last the duration you remain outdoors (you may need to reapply). Make sure you do not put repellant on the hands of small children, since they may irritate the eyes and mouth.

You should also spray repellant all over your skin; mosquitoes can and often will bite through thin material.

Mosquitoes lay there eggs in water so make sure your property is not mosquito friendly. You can do this by removing any standing pools of water on your property. Do a through search and correct any potential problem source.