Western equine encephalitis
Western equine encephalitis
Western equine encephalitis (pronunciation: west-ern ee-kwine en-sef-uh-lahy-tis) is a mosquito-borne viral disease that primarily affects horses and humans. The disease is caused by the Western equine encephalitis virus (WEEV), a member of the genus Alphavirus in the family Togaviridae.
Etymology
The term "Western equine encephalitis" is derived from the geographical region where the disease was first identified (the Western United States), the primary host (equine, referring to horses), and the primary symptom (encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain).
Symptoms
In humans, the symptoms of Western equine encephalitis can range from mild flu-like symptoms to severe neurological symptoms, including headache, high fever, disorientation, and even coma. In horses, the disease can cause similar neurological symptoms and can be fatal.
Transmission
Western equine encephalitis is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. The virus is maintained in a cycle between mosquitoes and birds. Horses and humans are considered "dead-end" hosts, as they do not contribute to the transmission cycle.
Prevention and Treatment
Prevention of Western equine encephalitis primarily involves controlling mosquito populations and avoiding mosquito bites. There is a vaccine available for horses, but not for humans. Treatment is supportive, as there is no specific antiviral treatment for the disease.
Related Terms
- Eastern equine encephalitis
- Venezuelan equine encephalitis
- Japanese encephalitis
- Saint Louis encephalitis
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Western equine encephalitis
- Wikipedia's article - Western equine encephalitis
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