Western Equine Encephalitis

Western Equine Encephalitis

Recently, Argentina reported the Western Equine Encephalitis Virus (WEEV) infection cases. 

  • A mosquito-borne infection
  • Caused by the Western Equine Encephalitis Virus (WEEV)
    • Single-stranded RNA virusVirus is a recombinant of the eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV) and a Sindbis-like virus.Reservoir – Passerine birds
    • Intermediate hosts  – Equine species
  • Primary mode of transmission – infection to humans is through mosquitoes which act as vectors for the virus.
  • While most of the infections are asymptomatic, the infection may lead to severe consequences in rare cases.
  • An estimated 4-5% of cases may manifest as infection/inflammation of the brain, resulting in neurological disease symptoms.
  •  With no specific antiviral treatment, symptomatic care is crucial, especially for neurologic symptoms.
  • Caused by the Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus (EEEV)
  • Transmission – spread to people by the bite of an infected mosquito.
  • Most cases found in –  Eastern or Gulf Coast states.
  • It is very serious disease – approximately 30% of people with EEE die
  • There are no vaccines to prevent or medicines to treat.
  • Reduce your risk of infection with EEE virus by using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and taking steps to control mosquitoes indoors and outdoors.
  • An enveloped RNA virus similar to Chikungunya alphavirus.
  • 1st isolated from Culex mosquitoes.
  • Virus is a causative agent of a rash-arthritis syndrome.

Source: The Hindu


‘Wolbachia method’ is sometimes talked about with reference to which one of the following?

[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2023 Prelims]

(a) Controlling the viral diseases spread by mosquitoes
(b) Converting crop residues into packing material
(c) Producing biodegradable plastics
(d) Producing biochar from thermo- chemical conversion of biomass

Answer: (a)


Practice Question

Recently, Western Equine Encephalitis was in the news. Which of the following statements about encephalitis is correct?

 

 
 
 
 

Question 1 of 1

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