Belgium, zone at risk?
If our country is not currently affected by the Western Nile virus, it could change very soon: “It is inevitable that we become one day,” insists the expert with HLN. Usually, mosquitoes prefer hot geographic areas, in southern Europe, but temperature variations throughout European territory make a rise in areas further north, as in Belgium and the Netherlands. “Our laboratory has also confirmed that the mosquitoes present in Belgium are capable of transmitting the Western Nile virus. It is therefore theoretically possible that some Belgians have already been infected,” said Wim Thiery.
What are the dangers of this virus? In most cases, infected people risk nothing, reassure experts, since only one in five people develop the disease, which generally results in symptoms such as fever, pain, swelling of the nodes. “An inflammation of the brain or meninges can occur in only 1% of cases”, continues the expert, “and it is only fatal for a tiny minority of people. Interhuman transmission of the virus is very rare. It only occurs by blood transfusion, during pregnancy or breastfeeding”.
No vaccine
Despite the deaths identified this year, no vaccine exists to counter the Western Nile Virus. The only way to avoid it? Do not get bitten, and avoid attracting mosquitoes using sprays, protections, and getting rid of stagnant water.
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