Based on the epidemiology data from CDC, (2017) 6,031 cases of West Nile Virus were reported in the state of California. The West Nile virus is caused by a bacteria referred to as “Flaviviridae”. This pathogen infects both animals and human beings following bites from the various kinds of infected mosquitoes. The West Nile Virus is most commonly transmitted to human beings through mosquito bites. Other possible modes of WNV transmission include receiving organ transplants that have not been tested for WNV. Similarly, in cases of blood transfusion where the donor is infected, the recipient also gets infected. A different way is during pregnancy. Research has demonstrated that in the event that a mother gets infected during her pregnancy, the baby also gets infected. Another avenue of transmission is through breastfeeding. If the mother contracts WNV, she is likely to spread it to her baby during breastfeeding. (What is West Nile Virus? What causes West Nile Virus, 2010). In gathering data on WNV, the most valuable approach would be through a descriptive study. The choice of this type of study is due to the fact that a descriptive study shows the populations at risk as well as the prevalence of WNV within the population (The epidemiological approach to investigating disease problems, n.d.). Moreover, a descriptive study allows for the computation of the number of individuals infected within a given time period. In turn, it allows for the classification of plans of action as concerns determinants of WNV and the implications of WNV on the population. (The epidemiological approach to investigating disease problems). The significance of the disease to my local community and the state community is seen in the fact that WNV can result in complicated infections. Actually, in the northern part of America, WNV has extensively been considered a recurring infection. Moreover, since mosquitoes commonly bite animals and human beings, the spread of the virus can be disastrous. The magnitude of WNV can be easily seen from the figures on cases reported in comparison to all other viruses. As such, communities can educate people to reduce potential rates of disease by emphasizing the effective control of mosquitoes. Additionally, they need to sensitize the public on ways of preventing mosquito bites as a way of reducing the rates of WNV. For instance, the public could be sensitized to use insect repellants, and wear long-sleeved clothes when walking in mosquito-prone areas such as forests. Furthermore, they need to emphasize on the importance of repairing broken windows to prevent mosquito entry into homes. In controlling mosquitoes, they need to focus on destroying bushes near homes and regularly draining stagnant water in their surroundings (CDC, 2017). On the other hand, in controlling the spread of the disease, the community needs to make use of state facilitates in ensuring early diagnosis and treatment of cases of WNV. They also need to employ various government agencies in conducting large-scale destruction of mosquito habitats. For instance, enhancing drainage in swamps and large bushes where mosquitoes hide and breed. Such measures could result in the mass destruction of mosquito larvae. Similarly, they can involve the government to boost their efforts by scattering insecticides from aircraft and trucks to get rid of mosquitoes (CDC, 2017). It is worth noting that the chances of illness from WNV remain quite low for families. Nevertheless, in the event that the WNV virus, reaches the human brain, a condition known as encephalitis results. Encephalitis manifests through swelling of the brain, which can disrupt the entire nervous system. All the same, encephalitis occurs in extremely rare cases of WNV. In addition to the efforts by the CDC, State and local departments of health, state agencies, as well as government health officers may be engaged in combating WNV. In conclusion, reading from websites on this disease made me realize that WNV is of great significance due to its rapid spread as well as its potential to cause other severe medical conditions. As such, it is imperative to raise awareness about the West Nile Virus and methods of preventing its spread. Moreover, it made me appreciate the importance of health programs in sensitizing the public about the disease and enabling quick diagnosis and treatment of the infection.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2017). Prevention & Control of West Nile Virus. Retrieved from www.cdc.gov: http://www.cdc.gov/westnile/prevention/index.html
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The epidemiological approach to investigating disease problems. (n.d.). Retrieved from www.fao.org: http://www.fao.org/wairdocs/ilri/x5436e/x5436e06.htm
What is West Nile Virus? What causes West Nile Virus? (2010). Retrieved from www.medicalnewstoday.com: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/187839.php
