West Nile Virus Infection Tied to Serious Long-Term Health Complications
West Nile virus infections can lead to significant long-term health problems, including mental and functional impairment and depression, according to data from an ongoing National Institutes of Health study recently presented at the International Conference on Emerging Infectious Diseases in Atlanta, Georgia. The research data collected thus far, as reported by Reuters Health, suggests that the most common long-term symptoms include fatigue, weakness, depression, personality changes, difficulty walking, memory loss and blurry vision.
The research data is based on the cases of 108 patients infected with West Nile Virus in the Houston, Texas area in 2002. The patients, who have been evaluated every 6 months for up to 5 years, include 54 patients (50%) who have suffered related encephalitis, 32 patients (30%) who have contracted meningitis, and 22 (20%) who suffered only uncomplicated fevers.
Persistent symptoms related to the infection were reported by 60% of the group after 1 year. Five years after infection, 42% still had symptoms related to West Nile.
Researchers also note that depression is a very important recurring outcome which has emerged over the course of the study. Approximately 31% of participants said they became depressed after West Nile infection. Seventy-five percent of those cases were found to meet the definition of clinical depression.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers the following tips to protect your home and community from West Nile Virus:
- "Eliminate Stagnant Water: Limit the number of places available for mosquitoes to lay their eggs by eliminating standing water sources from around your home (e.g., tires, garden pots and bird baths).
- Protect Wetlands From Pollution: Including runoff from farms, lawns and roads with buffers, since contaminated water attracts mosquitoes.
- Check Stormwater Systems: Ensure that stormwater catchments and constructed wetlands are properly designed and maintained.
- Install Screens: Install or repair screens on doors and windows so that mosquitoes cannot get indoors.
- Consider Using Pesticides: If necessary, try larvicides before adulticides, since larvicides more effectively control mosquitoes. Carefully follow instructions on the pesticide's label."
Previously on the DC Metro Area Medical Malpractice Law Blog, we have posted articles related to:
- Tips to prevent exposure to West Nile Virus
- General public service information regarding West Nile Virus
- Lyme Disease precautions for outdoor recreation
For information about your legal rights, please click here or call the law firm of Regan Zambri & Long, PLLC at 202-463-3030.