The month of July saw the re-emergence of West Nile virus, with the first human fatality in 2003 being reported and human infections being confirmed in 11 states.
Many more states have reported the virus in birds, horses and mosquitoes.
It is speculated that the virus could be more widespread in 2003 than in 2002, when there were more than 4,000 reported cases of the virus reaching 44 states.
"It is impossible to predict what this year’s season will hold," said CDC Director Julie Gerberding, M.D. "However, the recurrence of West Nile virus in humans is a compelling reminder of the importance of individual preparedness in preventing disease. Knowing how rapidly West Nile virus spread last year, we urge everyone who spends time outdoors to take steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites.”
The disease is most active during peak mosquito season -- July through October.
On the diagnostic front, the FDA has cleared the first test for use in screening the illness. The PanBio West Nile IgM assay detects levels of the antibody to the disease in a patient's serum and can be used within the first few days of the onset of illness.
The new test correctly identified antibody in more than 90 percent of West Nile cases. Because the virus is similar to other viruses in the same family, positive results should be confirmed with an additional test or by using CDC diagnostic guidelines. CDC information for clinicians can be found at http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/resources/fact_sheet_clinician.htm.
To reach writer Toni Lapp, e-mail tlapp@aafp.org.
FP Report is published by the
AAFP News Department.
Copyright © 2003 by
American Academy of Family Physicians.