JAMA Clinical Reviews West Nile Virus
Jul 7, 2025
Carolyn Gould, MD, a specialist from the CDC's Division of Vector-Borne Infectious Diseases, dives into the complexities of West Nile virus, the leading mosquito-borne disease in the U.S. since 1999. She discusses the virus's geography, impact, and diagnostic methods, particularly for vulnerable populations. The podcast highlights long-term effects on survivors and the absence of specific treatments, emphasizing the need for awareness and preventive measures against this pervasive threat.
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West Nile Virus Prevalence in US
- West Nile virus is the most common mosquito-borne virus in the US, widespread across all contiguous states.
- About 1,300 neuroinvasive disease cases and 130 deaths occur annually from West Nile virus in the US.
Risk Factors for Severe Disease
- Age 60+ and immunocompromise are prime risk factors for severe West Nile neuroinvasive disease.
- Being male and having diabetes or hypertension also increase this risk.
Global Spread and U.S. Regional Incidence
- West Nile virus originally caused mild febrile illness but now causes global outbreaks and more severe neuroinvasive disease.
- In the US, highest incidence is in central and western regions, including recent large outbreaks in Arizona and Texas.