The Dangers of West Nile Meningitis
When left untreated, West Nile virus can quickly become more
severe and turn into West Nile meningitis, an illness typically
contracted from a mosquito bite. It is becoming a rather common
occurrence as more and more individuals are vacationing in
tropical, remote areas, unaware of the potential danger and
without the means to protect themselves.
 Understanding
Meningitis
All forms of meningitis are caused by a virus, bacteria,
fungus or parasite. While mild West Nile virus causes inflammation
of the brain, in more serious cases, the swelling occurs in
the meninges, hence the name West Nile meningitis. The brain
and spinal cord are protected by this vital lining. The meninges
are made up of three membrane layers:
- Pia Mater – This paper-thin inner
layer adheres to the spinal cord and brain, filling up all
crevices.
- Arachnoid Mater – This filmy middle
layer is joined to the inner layer with cobweb-like threads.
- Dura Mater – This outer, parchment-like
layer adheres to the spinal canal and skull.
A cerebral spinal fluid circulates through the whole area.
After you are bit by an infected mosquito, the virus travels
through your blood, into the spinal fluid, and to the meninges.
Although your immune system attempts to fight the virus, brain
inflammation inevitably occurs, causing intense pressure in
the skull and eventual brain malfunction.
Symptoms
If you reside in a country or are traveling to an
area known to have a dense mosquito population, you should
be aware of the symptoms associated with West Nile meningitis.
Adults, teenagers and children of a certain age, who have
contracted the disease, generally experience extreme headaches,
fever and chills, vomiting, drowsiness, stiff neck, sensitivity
to light, irritability and confusion. In rare cases, seizure
or coma occurs.
After being bitten by an infected mosquito, infants and young
children will typically manifest some of the following symptoms
of West Nile meningitis: crying or whining in a high tone,
lethargy, fussiness, retracting the neck, arching the back,
cold feet and hands with a high fever, blank stare, vomiting,
refusing to eat, and skin blotches. Certain types of meningitis,
especially the bacterial variety, can result in brain damage
within 24 hours, in an infant or toddler, if not treated immediately.
While approximately 80 percent of individuals with West Nile
meningitis recover with no adverse effects, others experience
recurring headaches, lethargy, concentration problems, clumsiness,
short-term memory loss, depression, aggression, learning difficulties
and mood swings. One in ten of those who do not fully recover
are left with various degrees of deafness, negative changes
in eyesight, epilepsy and brain damage.
Prevention
There are no vaccines available against West Nile
meningitis, but avoiding the illness is possible. When vacationing,
camping or simply enjoying the outdoors, wear protective clothing.
Treated mosquito netting is especially effective in preventing
mosquito bites, and should be in place while sleeping. It
should completely cover you, without touching your skin. If
you must go outdoors at dusk and/or dawn, use a recommended
insect repellent, and spray your clothes.
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