Mosquito-Borne Viral EncephalitisPronunciation: En-sef-uh-LITE-is
by
Rebecca J. Stahl, MA DefinitionEncephalitis is inflammation of the brain. Certain mosquito-borne viruses can lead to encephalitis. Examples of these viruses include:
CausesThe most common cause is being bitten by an infected mosquito. There are other, rarer causes such having a blood transfusion with infected blood. Risk FactorsThe greatest risk factors are spending time in areas where mosquitoes are present and not using insect repellent. People who are age 50 years and older and those with a weakened immune system have a higher risk of developing serious symptoms. SymptomsMost people who become infected with one of these mosquito-borne viruses do not develop any symptoms. If symptoms do occur, they are generally mild and may include flu-like symptoms such as:
While rare, a small percentage of people develop encephalitis and have serious, life-threatening symptoms such as:
DiagnosisIn addition to taking your medical history and doing a physical exam, your doctor will ask you:
A blood test is commonly used to confirm the diagnosis of a mosquito-borne virus. Depending on the symptoms that you have, your doctor may order other tests such as:
TreatmentTreatment focuses on supportive care such as taking pain-relieving medications and fluid replacement to avoid dehydration. Severe symptoms require hospitalization for treatment, which may include:
PreventionThe best way to reduce your chances of getting mosquito-borne viral encephalitis is to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. Steps that can help include:
Mosquitoes can contract viruses by biting infected birds. If you see a dead bird, call the public health department. Do not touch the dead bird unless you are wearing disposable gloves. RESOURCES:Centers for Disease Control and Prevention https://www.cdc.gov National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke https://www.ninds.nih.gov References:Eastern equine encephalitis. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at:
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EBSCO Medical Review Board
David L. Horn, MD, FACP Last Updated: 12/20/2014 |
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