West Nile Virus Information for Physicians

Aug 3, 2012

West Nile virus (WNV) has been detected in many regions of the state. Physicians should:

• Be aware if WNV is active in their area
  
• Look for symptoms of WNV
  
• Test for WNV because testing:
  
  
  • differentiates WNV from other conditions (enterovirus, other arboviral diseases) and thus may prompt a change in treatment regime
    
  • results offer anticipatory guidance--both WNV neuroinvasive disease and WN fever patients can have lingering symptoms and knowing the underlying etiology is helpful for the patient and family members
    
  • helps mosquito control and public health agencies institute proper control measures to reduce the risk of further cases in the event of a positive result
  
  
• Contact their local public health department for details on sample submission and testing

For additional information, please see these resources:

• WNV: Keep it on Your Radar (up to date clinical and epidemiologic presentation on WNV)
  
• Flyer for Physicians on West Nile Virus
  
• West Nile Virus Disease During Pregnancy
  
• West Nile Virus Information and Guidance for Physicians

Participating Agencies: California Department of Public Health | UC Davis Center for Vectorborne Diseases | California Department of Food and Agriculture | Mosquito and Vector Control Association of California

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