Articles tagged with West Nile Virus
A team of researchers has developed a new generation of therapeutics against West Nile virus using tobacco plants. The monoclonal antibodies were shown to be effective in protecting mice from lethal doses even up to 4 days after infection.
The article reviews the epidemiology, characteristics, and prevention of West Nile virus, which has produced the largest arboviral neuroinvasive disease outbreaks in the US. The authors highlight the importance of sustainable community-based surveillance and vector management programs.
A study analyzed West Nile virus epidemics in Dallas County, Texas, finding that they begin early after warm winters and are predicted by the mosquito vector index. The analysis also revealed higher incidence rates of neuroinvasive disease in recent years compared to previous decades.
Researchers analyzed decade of West Nile infections, weather, and housing data to identify optimal time for intervention. The study found that using a mosquito vector index can nip outbreaks in the bud, but late intervention may still be necessary if data are unavailable.
Researchers analyzed emergency department records to assess aerial mosquito spraying's impact on human health. No increase was found in diagnoses associated with pesticide exposure, including respiratory and neurological conditions.
Researchers have discovered a link between West Nile virus in mosquitoes and birds, as well as the insects' ability to spread the virus to horses and people. Habitats with high disease prevalence in horses and birds also have more mosquitoes and certain bird species, which contribute to the transmission of the virus.
Researchers discovered that wild birds were previously exposed to the West Nile virus before their arrival in Greece during autumn migration. The study found 14 positive serum samples from birds up to 8 months prior to the human outbreak, and genetic determinants of increased virulence were present in these samples.
The US has seen a dramatic increase in West Nile Virus cases, exceeding 2012 levels. Experts urge health care professionals and the public to take mosquito-prevention measures to avoid life-threatening diseases.
Researchers from the University of Illinois discovered that low rainfall and high temperatures increase the numbers of larvae in storm water catch basins. The study, published in Journal of Medical Entomology, highlights the importance of monitoring mosquito populations in these areas to track West Nile Virus disease cases.
West Nile virus infection causes breakdown of two vital proteins, claudin and JAM, leading to accelerated degradation of the blood-brain barrier. Researchers hope to design drugs that prevent brain infection by understanding this mechanism.
A species of Culex modestus, known to transmit West Nile virus in Europe, has been found breeding in the UK's marshes after a 60-year absence. The discovery highlights the need to investigate mosquito-borne risks to human health and informs efforts to track the mosquitoes' spread.
Research finds West Nile virus transmission is highest in urbanized and agricultural habitats, with robins and specific mosquito species playing a crucial role. The virus has had an impact on human health, particularly due to its ability to target abundant bird species.
Research reveals that West Nile virus transmission is highest in urbanized and agricultural areas, with the American robin playing a key role as a 'super-spreader'. Mosquito species that feed on robins are more important in transmission than other birds.
A species of mosquito capable of transmitting West Nile virus has been found on Galapagos Islands, posing a significant risk to the archipelago's unique wildlife. Strict insect control measures and further research are recommended to prevent the disease from reaching the islands.
The DYCAST program successfully predicted where 81.6% of human cases of the West Nile virus would arise in California in 2005. By using biological parameters, the model identified high-risk areas with a risk 39 times higher than low-risk areas, allowing for targeted mosquito control and reduced human illness.
Researchers track both clinical cases of West Nile Virus and infected mosquito populations to identify 'danger zones' and predict outbreaks. They also analyze the virus's genetic types, dynamics, and mobility to better understand its migration patterns.
Researchers have identified a security system in host cells that viruses exploit to replicate, allowing them to evade the immune system. The discovery sheds light on how some viruses add chemical caps to RNA to bypass host cell defenses.
Researchers have discovered how an antibody binds to West Nile virus, neutralizing it by crosslinking protein molecules. This 'locking up' prevents the virus from infecting host cells, making it a potential target for vaccine development.
Researchers have sequenced the genome of Culex quinquefasciatus, a mosquito species that transmits West Nile virus. The study provides insights into disease transmission and offers a platform for comparative studies to investigate interactions between viruses and mosquitoes.
Researchers at UC Riverside have sequenced the genome of Culex quinquefasciatus, a mosquito that spreads West Nile virus and other diseases. The study provides insights into the genetic makeup of the mosquito and could lead to novel strategies for preventing disease transmission.
Researchers are testing a new drug therapy, MGAWN1, to treat individuals with West Nile fever or suspected central nervous system infection. The treatment has the potential to neutralize the virus and reduce complications associated with the disease.
A study by Emory University found that sewage overflows in urban creeks and streams increase the risk of West Nile virus transmission, particularly in lower-income neighborhoods. The analysis showed a seven times higher risk for residents near affected areas compared to other parts of the city.
A York University study found that leaving organic debris in catch basins improves the effectiveness of S-methoprene in controlling mosquito larvae. The researchers discovered that S-methoprene binds to organic material, making it more effective when left in the catch basins.
A study by University of Adelaide scientists has confirmed that a mutated OAS1 gene increases the vulnerability of horses to the West Nile virus. The findings suggest that genetic mechanisms play a similar role in humans and horses, highlighting the potential for screening valuable horses for the presence of the mutation.
A new study suggests that mosquitoes, particularly Culex tarsalis, played a significant role in spreading West Nile virus across the US. The findings reveal that mosquitoes' flight patterns mimic the actual path of the virus's spread, contradicting previous assumptions that birds were primarily responsible.
A study by researchers at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health suggests that mosquitoes played a primary role in spreading West Nile virus westward across the US. Genetic analysis detected widespread movement by Culex tarsalis populations, which were congruent with the pattern of West Nile virus infection across the country.
Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a plant-based therapeutic that effectively combats West Nile virus infection. The treatment, derived from tobacco plants, neutralizes the virus by binding to its surface protein, offering a promising alternative to existing treatments.
Researchers at Emory University have developed the Prokopack mosquito aspirator, a low-cost, efficient tool for monitoring adult mosquitoes and the diseases they carry. The device outperforms current gold standards in field and lab tests, providing insights into mosquito ecology and behavior.
A new study finds that West Nile virus can remain in the kidneys of infected individuals for years, potentially causing chronic symptoms and kidney failure. Researchers collected urine samples from patients with severe initial infections and detected viral RNA for at least six years following infection.
Researchers at UC Riverside have identified a novel class of compounds that could pave the way for developing inexpensive and safe mosquito repellents. These odorants, including hexanol and 2,3-butanedione, prevent CO2-sensitive neurons in mosquitoes from functioning.
Researchers Higgs and Gould examine climate's impact on West Nile, Chikungunya, Rift Valley fever, and Bluetongue viruses' spread. Climate change is linked to the northward expansion of Culex imicola midge species, facilitating Bluetongue virus dispersal.
Researchers identified a small molecule called sfRNA that controls host response to viral infection. Targeting this molecule could lead to effective antiviral therapy for flavivirus diseases.
The rapid spread of West Nile virus in North America has had significant effects on wildlife, with many bird species still recovering from large population declines. Research is ongoing to understand the factors influencing species vulnerability and mosquito transmission, which could lead to better predictions and public warnings.
A study by biologists at Washington University in St. Louis shows that bird diversity is a buffer against the occurrence of West Nile Virus in humans. The more diverse a bird population, the lower the risk of exposure to WNV.
A new test for West Nile virus in horses has been developed, which could be modified for use on humans and wildlife. The test is highly effective at diagnosing infections and provides accurate results, making it useful for tracking the ecology and epidemiology of the disease.
Long-term West Nile virus infection recovery is possible within a year, with brain affected patients taking slightly longer to recover. Vitamin D deficiency is also identified as a risk factor for hip fractures in older women.
A large study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that West Nile virus patients experience similar physical and mental function recoveries, regardless of neurological symptoms, with pre-existing health conditions affecting prognosis. Recovery times averaged around one year.
A team of Yale researchers has identified 305 individual proteins that can alter viral infection, including those involved in West Nile and Dengue fever. This discovery may lead to the development of new treatments for a variety of viral infections.
A new study reveals that warmer temperatures significantly accelerated the spread of a new strain of West Nile virus across North America. The virus displaced the older strain and led to two of the largest epidemics on record, with over 270 deaths in both 2002 and 2003.
A study found that about 60% of people with severe West Nile infection continue to experience symptoms years after infection. Most recovery takes place within two years following infection.
A recent study published by the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston found that bites from uninfected mosquitoes can make West Nile virus worse in lab mice. The research showed a significant increase in mortality rates when mice were exposed to multiple mosquito feedings before being infected with West Nile virus.
Researchers found that West Nile virus can spread through nerve cells, breaking into the central nervous system and triggering acute flaccid paralysis. Injection of a therapeutic antibody blocked both encephalitis and paralysis in laboratory animals.
Assistant professor John Drake is studying how West Nile virus differs between urban and rural areas using computer models and data on infected mosquitoes, birds, and humans. The goal is to provide recommendations for improving New York City's mosquito control strategies and early warning systems.
Researchers identify key factors that contribute to the amplification and transmission of West Nile Virus, including drought-induced conditions and specific mosquito species. By understanding these local conditions, control strategies can be devised to prevent the spread of the disease.
Researchers found that Culex mosquitoes changed their feeding behavior from American robins to humans in the fall, leading to large-scale outbreaks of disease. The study's findings suggest a continent-wide phenomenon and may explain why West Nile virus outbreaks are more intense in the US than in Europe and Africa.
Researchers found a link between CCR5 mutation and increased risk of severe West Nile virus infection. Individuals with this mutation had higher rates of symptomatic cases, highlighting potential implications for HIV treatment.
A genetic mutation, CCR5delta32, makes individuals more susceptible to West Nile virus infections. Research suggests that this lack of a protein can prevent protective immune cells from reaching the brain, increasing the risk of severe disease.
VGTI researchers will investigate West Nile virus susceptibility in older adults, aiming to develop new treatments and a vaccine. The studies will focus on immune system responses and identify factors that increase susceptibility to the disease.
Researchers found that the antibody prevents the virus from rearranging its protein envelope after entering host cells, blocking infection. The study also uncovered a theory called antibody-dependent enhancement, which may help explain why some antibodies are ineffective against certain viruses.
Researchers found that between 2-6% of recipient mosquitoes acquired the virus in experiments, with a single bite from an infected donor mosquito infecting two out of 87 recipient mosquitoes. This new transmission method could accelerate disease spread by bypassing the need for high viremia levels.
Researchers have developed an infection-fighting antibody that successfully cures disease in mice infected with West Nile virus, even when the virus had entered their brains. The monoclonal antibody was several hundred times more potent than natural antibodies and completely protected mice against death.
Scientists have discovered a humanized monoclonal antibody that can boost survival rates of infected mice to 90% or higher. The antibody, produced by Macrogenics Inc., has potential utility against other infectious diseases and could help develop new treatments for related viruses like dengue fever.
Eleven organ transplant recipients were hospitalized with West Nile virus encephalitis, developing neurological damage and some surviving despite significant problems. The study highlights the risk of WNV infection in immunosuppressed individuals receiving long-term immune system-suppressing drugs.
A University of Toronto study found that West Nile virus encephalitis is a common neurological manifestation in hospitalized patients, often leading to severe neuromuscular dysfunction. The study's authors recommend electrodiagnostic testing for unexplained weakness and critically ill patients to rule out acute flaccid paralysis syndrome.
The West Nile virus has a devastating impact on small populations of sage-grouse, with a 25% decrease in late summer survival rates. The bird species lacks resistance to the virus, making it essential to improve habitats and implement effective mosquito control measures.
The NIAID is conducting a clinical trial to test the safety and effectiveness of Omr-IgG-am, an antibody-based product derived from Israeli donors, in treating West Nile virus infection. The study aims to provide preliminary data on the treatment's effectiveness against encephalitis, a brain inflammation caused by WNV infection.
Researchers develop a system to predict West Nile virus risk based on climate factors, including temperature. The model will provide early warnings for public health professionals and serve as a model for other vector-borne disease risks.
Researchers warn that live flavivirus vaccines can recombine, resulting in new microbes with undesirable properties. The use of these vaccines requires international approval due to safety concerns, including increased virulence, disease development in compromised individuals, and birth defects.
Wetland restoration projects must consider the inevitable creation of mosquito habitats, which can increase exposure to diseases like West Nile virus. Elizabeth Willott suggests explicitly addressing mosquito control in proposals to strengthen project outcomes.
The US is likely to see an increase in West Nile virus cases in California this year, thanks to a combination of mosquito population, agricultural methods, and bird migration patterns. The state's diverse geography and climate will also contribute to the spread of the disease.