What is West Nile Fever? Diseases latched on US prez's ex-chief medical advisor Anthony Fauci

New Delhi: Anthony S Fauci, the former director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), has been hospitalized due to West Nile virus, according to a recent statement from his spokesperson. Fauci, 83, who retired from his role at NIAID in 2022 after leading the institute for nearly 40 years, was admitted to the hospital earlier this month. He has since been discharged and is recovering at home.

"Tony Fauci has been hospitalized with a case of West Nile virus. He is now home and is recovering. A full recovery is expected," the spokesperson confirmed. Fauci, renowned for his role in the national coronavirus response under both Presidents Donald Trump and Joe Biden, continues to face significant political scrutiny despite his retirement.

BREAKING 🚨: Dr. Anthony Fauci, former director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, is recovering at home after being hospitalized with West Nile virus pic.twitter.com/wRaQVWEbTk

— Officer Lew (@officer_Lew) August 24, 2024

What is West Nile Virus?

West Nile virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne pathogen that can cause a range of symptoms. Most people infected with WNV do not exhibit symptoms. However, approximately 20% of those infected develop West Nile fever, characterized by fever, headache, body aches, and flu-like symptoms. In rare cases, the virus can lead to more severe conditions, such as encephalitis or meningitis, which involve inflammation of the brain or spinal cord.

West Nile virus was first identified in the West Nile district of Uganda, from which it derives its name. It is an arbovirus in the genus Flavivirus, related to viruses that cause dengue fever, yellow fever, and Zika.

West Nile virus is prevalent in many regions across the globe, including North America, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Australia, and Asia. It is the most common mosquito-borne virus in the U.S., with cases reported in 49 states. Since its introduction to the US in 1999, there have been over 51,000 symptomatic cases.

What are its symptoms, risks?

Infection with West Nile virus can be asymptomatic in about 80% of cases. When symptoms do occur, they may include fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting, and rash. Severe forms of the disease, known as neuroinvasive disease, can lead to high fever, neck stiffness, disorientation, and even paralysis. About 1 in 150 people infected with WNV will develop severe illness, with those over 50 and immunocompromised individuals at higher risk.