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Updated: Jul 17, 2026
07:23
Detection of Infectious Virus from Field-collected Mosquitoes by Vero Cell Culture Assay
Published on: June 9, 2011
The traveller and West Nile virus
1Academic Centre for Travel Medicine and Vaccines and The WHO Collaborating Centre for Reference, Research and Training in Travel Medicine, Royal Free and University College Medical School, University College London, Royal Free Campus, Rowland Hill Street, London NW3 2PF, UK.
Travel Medicine and Infectious Disease
|February 13, 2007
Summary
West Nile virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne zoonotic disease threatening public and animal health. Most WNV infections are asymptomatic, but severe neurological illness can occur, especially in older adults.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- West Nile virus (WNV) is an emerging zoonotic disease posing significant threats to public and animal health in Europe and North America.
- Transmission occurs via mosquitoes, with wild birds serving as the primary hosts.
- Most WNV infections are asymptomatic, but a small percentage can lead to severe neurological disease, particularly in individuals over 50.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of West Nile virus as a public health concern.
- To summarize the epidemiology, transmission, and clinical manifestations of WNV infections.
- To outline current prevention strategies and assess the risk to travelers.
Main Methods:
- This abstract summarizes existing knowledge on West Nile virus.
- Information is synthesized from epidemiological data and public health reports.
- Focus is on transmission dynamics, clinical outcomes, and prevention.
Main Results:
- West Nile virus is transmitted by mosquitoes and cycles between wild birds and vectors.
- Severe neurological disease affects approximately 1% of infected individuals, with higher risk in the elderly.
- No specific treatment or vaccine is currently available for WNV.
Conclusions:
- Prevention strategies focus on mosquito bite protection and vector control in affected regions.
- The risk of symptomatic illness for travelers appears low, though not fully quantified.
- Continued surveillance and public awareness are crucial for managing WNV threats.
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