Two West Nile Virus Infections Reported in Berlin and Brandenburg
Robert Koch Institute Announces Recent Cases
Cases Detected Through Mosquito Monitoring Program
The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) has reported two cases of West Nile virus (WNV) infection in Berlin and Brandenburg, Germany. These infections were detected through the ongoing mosquito monitoring program conducted by the RKI.
WNV is a mosquito-borne virus that can cause flu-like symptoms, including fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. In severe cases, WNV can lead to encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord).
The RKI is urging people to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites, such as wearing long sleeves and pants when outdoors, using insect repellent, and covering windows and doors with screens.
What is West Nile Virus?
West Nile virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne flavivirus that can cause fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes encephalitis or meningitis.
WNV is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds.
WNV is not typically fatal, but it can cause serious illness in some people. The elderly, young children, and people with weakened immune systems are at highest risk for severe illness.
How to Protect Yourself from West Nile Virus
There is no vaccine to prevent WNV, but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of infection:
- Avoid mosquito bites by wearing long sleeves and pants when outdoors, using insect repellent, and covering windows and doors with screens.
- Eliminate standing water around your home, such as in birdbaths, flower pots, and clogged gutters. Mosquitoes breed in standing water.
- If you are bitten by a mosquito, wash the bite area with soap and water.
Treatment for West Nile Virus
There is no specific treatment for WNV. Treatment is supportive and may include rest, pain relievers, and fluids.
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