West Nile virus: another emerging arboviral risk for travelers?

Abstract

Purpose of Review West Nile virus (WNV) is an arbovirus transmitted by mosquitos of the genus Culex . Manifestations of WNV infection range from asymptomatic to devastating neuroinvasive disease leading to flaccid paralysis and death. This review examines WNV epidemiology and ecology, with an emphasis on travel-associated infection. Recent Findings WNV is widespread, including North America and Europe, where its range has expanded in the past decade. Rising temperatures in temperate regions are predicted to lead to an increased abundance of Culex mosquitoes and an increase in their ability to transmit WNV. Although the epidemiologic patterns of WNV appear variable, its geographic distribution most certainly will continue to increase. Travelers are at risk for WNV infection and its complications. Literature review identified 39 cases of documented travel-related WNV disease, the majority of which resulted in adverse outcomes, such as neuroinvasive disease, prolonged recovery period, or death. Summary The prediction of WNV risk is challenging due to the complex interactions of vector, pathogen, host, and environment. Travelers planning to visit endemic areas should be advised regarding WNV risk and mosquito bite prevention. Evaluation of ill travelers with compatible symptoms should consider the diagnosis of WNV for those visiting in endemic areas as well as for those returning from destinations with known WNV circulation.

Detection of anti-premembrane antibody as a specific marker of four flavivirus serocomplexes and its application to serosurveillance in endemic regions

“…First isolated in Uganda in 1937, WNV caused human cases and outbreaks in Africa and Europe; since 1999 WNV has spread throughout the continental US and to Canada and Mexico [ 1 , 11 ]. The reports of increased incidence in the geographic distribution of WNV and travel-related WNV cases posed new challenge of serosurveillance for flaviviruses [ 11 , 12 ]. ZIKV, first isolated in Uganda in 1947, was associated with relatively few human cases until the outbreaks on Yap Island in 2007 and French Polynesia in 2013−2014.…”

A virus becomes a global concern: research activities on West-Nile virus

“…Globally, this increases and magnifies the risk for people unaware of the potential dangers of WNV infection. In particular, travellers and people working outdoors are at risk and should be informed about the risks and measures for self-protection [ 30 ]. Global and improved surveillance programs are needed in many countries to reduce public health risks and better assess epidemiologic parameters [ 30 ].…”

“…In particular, travellers and people working outdoors are at risk and should be informed about the risks and measures for self-protection [ 30 ]. Global and improved surveillance programs are needed in many countries to reduce public health risks and better assess epidemiologic parameters [ 30 ]. The noted trend of declining research activity and funding is astonishing, given that WNV continues to cause mortality and morbidity now and in the future [ 23 ].…”

Detection of anti-premembrane antibody as a specific marker of four flavivirus serocomplexes and its application to serosurveillance in endemic regions

“…First isolated in Uganda in 1937, WNV caused human cases and outbreaks in Africa and Europe; since 1999 WNV has spread throughout the continental U.S. and to Canada and Mexico [1,11]. The reports of increased incidence in the geographic distribution of WNV and travel-related WNV cases posed new challenge of serosurveillance for flaviviruses [11,12]. ZIKV, first isolated in Uganda in 1947, was associated with relatively few human cases until the outbreaks on Yap Island in 2007 and French Polynesia in 2013−2014.…”

“…The reports of increased incidence in the geographic distribution of WNV and travel-related WNV cases posed new challenge of serosurveillance for flaviviruses [11,12]. ZIKV, first isolated in Uganda in 1947, was associated with relatively few human cases until the outbreaks on Yap Island in 2007 and French Polynesia in 2013−2014.…”