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A NATUROPATHIC PERSPECTIVE Q: What is West Nile Virus? A: West Nile Virus is a mosquito-borne virus that results in no symptoms in 70 - 80% of the population, in 20% of the population it results in flu-like symptoms and in less than 1% of the population it results in severe illnesses such as encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord). Q: How is West Nile spread? A: West Nile virus is spread to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. A mosquito becomes infected, by biting a bird, that carries the virus. West Nile virus is not spread by person-to-person contact such as kissing or caring for someone who is infected. Q: What are the odds that a mosquito that bites me will give me West Nile Virus? A: 70 - 80 % of people who are bitten by a mosquito that is infected with the West Nile Virus will have no symptoms because their immune system is able to fight the virus effectively, 20% will experience mild illness with fever, headache and body aches and will fully recover. Some individuals, particularly the elderly, those who are currently dealing with other health concerns and people with suppressed immune systems, are at risk of having complications. West Nile Virus can cause encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) that results in rapid onset of severe headaches, high fever, stiff neck, confusion, loss of consciousness (coma), paralysis and muscle weakness. Death might occur in some instances. Q: What is the incubation period in humans (ie. Time from infection to onset of disease symptoms) for West Nile encephalitis? A: Usually 5 to 15 days. Q: I’ve been bitten by a mosquito. Should I be tested for West Nile Virus? A: No. Most mosquitoes are not infected with the West Nile virus. Illnesses related to mosquito bites are rare. However, you should see your naturopathic doctor or medical doctor if you develop symptoms such as high fever, confusion, muscle weakness, severe headaches, stiff neck, or if your eyes become sensitive to light. Patients with mild symptoms recover completely, and do not require any specific medication or laboratory testing. Q: Should I use insect repellents to prevent getting bitten by mosquitoes? A: Prevention is always an integral part of health. There are a number of natural and chemical insecticides. The chemical insecticides, such as those with DEET are known to offer protection, but there are also potential side effects ranging from skin reactions to neurological problems, especially with young children. Natural insecticides are an effective and safe way of repelling mosquitoes, but they may have to be applied more frequently. It is important to consider your current state of health and to weigh the risks of the insect repellent versus the risk of side effects or illness when determining which insect repellent is best for you. WEST NILE VIRUS – GENERAL PATIENT GUIDELINES FOR PREVENTION Prevention of West Nile virus (WNV) can be looked at from three perspectives. Immune health to prevent the risk of illness of WNV. Not allowing mosquitoes a breeding environment. Avoidance of mosquito bites. Immune health to prevent the risk of illness from WNV. People don’t get sick from WNV because they don’t use the right precautions they get sick because they have a weakened immune system. If you have any concerns or indications that your immune system is not functioning optimally then work with your naturopathic doctor to address your specific concerns. Some general recommendations for maintaining a strong immune system include: Proper nutrition and strong digestive function: At least 4 servings of fresh fruit and vegetables to ensure adequate fiber; Garlic, onions, thyme and oregano help boost the immune system and fight off viruses Avoid sugar, caffeine and alcohol which depresses immune function Drink 6 – 8 glasses of water a day to ensure that toxins are easily removed from the body. General hygiene guidelines: Ensure adequate rest and sleep End showers with cold water to boost the immune system Spend five to ten minutes a day focusing on your breathing, spend twice as long on the exhalation as the inhalation Remember that emotional stress can depress the immune system Engage in stress reduction exercises, meditation, massage or acupuncture to lower stress. Supplements for immune support: Acidophilus (1 a day) if there is existing gas or bloating Multivitamin with minerals (choose a professional brand such as Thorne, BioMed, Genestra or SISU) Vitamin C (3 grams a day in divided doses) and selenium (up to 400 micrograms a day) Zinc (50 mg a day) Immune enhancing herbs such as Astragalus or Echinacea Ledum 30CH or 30K as a homeopathic prophlatically for mosquito bites or Other supplements as recommended by you naturopathic doctor. Do not allow mosquitoes a breeding environment. Standing, stagnant water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes (mosquitoes can breed in any puddle that last more than four days). Remove all containers where rainwater collects or where there is stagnant water. This includes toys around t he yard, standing water in old tires, cemetery urns, buckets, plastic covers and drain gutters Empty and change the water in bird baths, fountains, wading pools, rain barrels and potted plant trays at least once a week if not more often; and keep swimming pools treated and circulating. Avoid mosquito bites:
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