West Nile Encephalitis: Everything You Need to Know

Although it is not very common, there has recently been an outbreak of West Nile encephalitis, a disease transmitted by mosquito bites. What are its symptoms? How can we protect ourselves? In this post, we explain everything you need to know. Read on!

A few days ago, the news broke that there had been an outbreak of West Nile encephalitis in Andalusia. It is a disease that can be transmitted by infected mosquito bites, breastfeeding, transfusions and transplants.

Symptoms of West Nile encephalitis

Although 4 out of 5 people do not develop symptoms, the most common include fever, headache, tiredness, nausea, vomiting, skin rashes and even swollen lymph glands.

All of this appears within an incubation period of 1 to 14 days after infection, and the symptoms usually last between 3 and 6 days. However, there are cases in which they can continue for up to a month.

Causes of West Nile virus

Although there is still not a great deal of data on the matter, research suggests that the cause of West Nile virus lies in a first mosquito bite on an infected bird and a second bite from that same mosquito to a person.

Mosquitoes carry many viruses at the beginning of autumn, which is why most people contract diseases linked to these bites in late August and early September.

And now for the million-pound answer: the colder the climate, the fewer mosquitoes survive, so there is less chance of catching one of these diseases. That is why summer and hot weather are when there are more mosquitoes.

However, certain risk groups such as pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, people who have recently undergone chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, those with HIV/AIDS, or people of very advanced or very young age should take special care.

Why? Because this virus can also be transmitted through blood transfusions, organ transplants and even through breast milk.

How can infection be prevented?

To avoid infection, the most important thing is to avoid spending time in places where there are lots of mosquitoes, especially at dawn and dusk, try not to leave lights on, use repellents throughout the day, follow good personal hygiene that does not include strong perfumes, which could attract them, and if you have mosquito nets at home, keep them down.

As for repellents, if you are looking to protect the little ones in the house, in this post you will find the best products to prevent bites. And for adults, here are our recommendations:

Relec Extra Strong Mosquito Repellent Spray 75 ml

In spray format, this mosquito repellent is intended for use in tropical climates or in situations where we are exposed to endemic infections.

Formulated with 50% DEET, the most common and effective ingredient in insect repellents, together with lavender oil and geraniol oil, it provides long-lasting protection, up to 9 hours, against mosquito bites and other insects, while leaving a pleasant scent on the skin.

Everything you need to know about Relec Extra Strong Mosquito Repellent Spray by clicking here.

Goibi Extreme Mosquito Repellent Spray 75 ml

Another option against infections caused by mosquito bites is this Goibi spray. It is also recommended for areas with extreme climates where there is a high risk of transmission of these diseases or in outbreak zones.

Quick and easy to apply, its formula with 45% DEET offers full protection for up to 8 hours. Full information about Goibi Extreme Mosquito Repellent Spray at this link.

Isdin Xtrem Mosquito Repellent Spray 75 ml

This Isdin spray protects not only against mosquito bites but also against endemic infections caused by these insects. Suitable for adults and children from 3 years of age, this repellent creates a protective barrier on the skin, providing high protection for 6 to 8 hours against these bites.

More information about Isdin Xtrem Mosquito Repellent Spray by clicking here.

Halley Mosquito Repellent 100 ml

Also in spray format, this repellent acts against tropical mosquito bites and other insects, protecting the skin for 6 hours.

With a pleasant scent, this mosquito repellent, formulated with natural Pyrethrum extract, keeps insects away and helps prevent the itching caused by their bites. On the website, you can also find it in 100 ml, 150 ml and 250 ml formats.

Would you like to know more about Halley Mosquito Repellent? Click here. And for anyone wondering, these repellents can be applied together with sunscreen.

Apply your sun cream first and, after 30 minutes, apply the mosquito repellent.

Of course, if you notice any of the symptoms we have mentioned, always contact a specialist. And do not forget your repellent!