West Nile Virus: Risk Factors of Spreading, Prevention and Control Measures

摘要

West Nile is an insect-borne flavivirus which can cause serious, life-altering and even fatal diseases. It has been detected in at least 48 species of mosquitoes, over 250 species of birds, and at 18 mammalian species, including humans. The most serious manifestation of West Nile Virus (WNV) infection is fatal encephalitis in humans and horses, as well as mortality in certain domestic and wild birds. Approximately one in 150 infections results in severe neurological illness. Given our incomplete and evolving knowledge of the ecology and public health impact of WN virus, as well as the efficacy of control efforts, the virus will remain an important public health challenge in the next years all round the world. The purpose of this study is to understanding how and why the WNV epidemics occurred, by the evaluation of epidemiological, ecological, clinical and potential risk factors that can lead to epidemic manifestation. This information will be both interesting and useful in order to developing a global surveillance and effective control strategies for preventing the spread of WNV.