Western Equine Encephalitis

Western equine encephalitis (WEE) is a viral illness transmitted to people and horses through the bite of an infected mosquito. The Western equine encephalitis virus (WEEV) is an arthropod-borne virus, seen primarily in states west of the Mississippi River in the United States. The disease caused by this virus — Western equine encephalitis or encephalomyelitis (WEE) — is also seen in countries of South America. WEE is commonly a subclinical infection; symptomatic infections are uncommon. However, the disease can cause serious long-tem complications in infants and children.

Unlike Eastern equine encephalitis, the overall mortality of WEE is low (approximately 4%) and is associated mostly with infection in the elderly. There is no vaccine for WEE, nor are therapeutic drugs licensed in the U.S. for this infection. Since 1964, there have been fewer than 700 confirmed cases in the U.S.*

See also :

• Immunological Disorders
• Infectious Diseases
• Encephalitis

Symptoms

• Headache, fever, chills, pharyngitis
• Altered consciousness
• Seizures, fatal encephalitis

Home remedies

• Agaricus : The mushroom is able to curtail the cytopathic impact of the Western Equine Encephalitis Virus because of its antioxidant, antimutagenic and anticarcinogenic properties.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is not meant to be substituted for medical advice. Always consult a medical professional regarding any medical problems and before undertaking any treatment or dietary changes.