In Kusa, Chelyabinsk Region, mosquitoes were found to have the West Nile fever virus. According to the press service of the Taganay National Park, the pathogen can cause meningitis, myalgia, and rash in humans.
Volgograd scientists conducted studies of mosquitoes as part of monitoring the infection of animals with the West Nile fever virus. 210 mosquitoes of six species were collected in the national park.
Due to climate change, the range of the West Nile fever pathogen has expanded significantly. People are already becoming infected in the Southern and North Caucasian, as well as in the Central, Ural and Volga districts.
— No blood-sucking mosquitoes positive for West Nile fever virus markers were found in the national park, but RNA of the virus was detected in Culex modestus mosquitoes caught in Kusa, the report says.
Russians were reminded of the importance of using repellents, especially during the period of greatest insect activity.
West Nile fever is a natural focal infection. The virus circulates between birds and blood-sucking mosquitoes. Ticks may participate in the circulation. Horses are susceptible to infection. People are also susceptible to infection through the bite of infected mosquitoes.
Most people are asymptomatic or have mild symptoms:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Fatigue
- Rash
In severe cases, fever, headache with the development of meningitis, myalgia, and rash are observed.
The most vulnerable to severe forms of the disease:
- People over 60
- People with weakened immune systems
- People with chronic diseases
Basic preventive measures:
- Avoiding mosquito bites (using repellents, protective clothing)
- Installing mosquito nets on windows and doors
Read also: Toxicologist Kutyshov: your health may be at risk if you choose the wrong frying pan and saucepan.
Also on the topic: If your hands or feet itch at a certain time of day, this may indicate fatty liver disease.
You can read: Oncologist Nazliev told which washing powder can cause skin cancer.
Important! The information is provided for reference purposes. Ask a specialist about contraindications and side effects and do not self-medicate under any circumstances. At the first signs of illness, consult a doctor.