Tamil Nadu steps up watch in border districts for West Nile virus

Chennai: Tamil Nadu has stepped up surveillance in border districts after a death and cases of West Nile virus were reported in at least three districts in Kerala. On Saturday, the directorate of public health said officials in border districts have stepped up fever surveillance, but insisted that people must seek medical attention if they have symptoms of this viral disease.
West Nile virus is transmitted predominantly through the bite of an infected culex mosquito. The mosquito carries flavivirus -- an RNA virus that can infect humans, birds and horses. “There is no need to panic. Nearly 80% of people infected with the West Nile virus do not experience any symptoms,” said director of public health Dr T S Selvavinayagam. “Some patients may develop a fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting and rash. While most people fully recover, some may experience ongoing weakness and fatigue or more severe complications,” he said.
The risk of severe disease and complications is higher among the elderly, people with cancer, diabetes, hypertension or kidney disease or those with immune-compromised conditions. Complications include inflammation of the brain, known as encephalitis, or of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, known as meningitis.
The release from the department on Saturday said people with symptoms of West Nile virus, especially those with encephalitis, should be tested. The disease can be detected by "Elisa" and "RT PCR" (RTPCR) tests. “Samples will be sent to NIV-Pune. People must avoid medication without consulting doctors,” Selvavinayagam said.
While local body staff have been instructed to increase vector control measures, people must identify breeding areas and carry out eradication measures in and around their homes. “Keep gardens and area around the house clean and avoid water stagnation,” Dr Selvavinayagam said. (For more information contact number 104.)