West Nile Virus (Flaviviridae)
Document Type
Book Chapter
Publication Date
1-1-2020
School
Biological, Environmental, and Earth Sciences
Abstract
West Nile virus (WNV), a mosquito-transmitted flavivirus, was first discovered in Africa in 1937 and gained its entry to North America in 1999. In the past 20 years, WNV has spread to all other continents except for Antarctica and the virus has been causing significant morbidity and mortality. WNV is now considered as the most important causative agent of human viral encephalitis worldwide, however, there are still no vaccines or specific treatments available for human use. This article summarizes WNV biology, transmission, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, pathogenesis, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment implications.
Publication Title
Encyclopedia of Virology Volume 1 5 Fourth Edition
Volume
2026-01-05
First Page
884
Last Page
890
Recommended Citation
Bai, F.,
Thompson, E.
(2020). West Nile Virus (Flaviviridae). Encyclopedia of Virology Volume 1 5 Fourth Edition, 2026-01-05, 884-890.
Available at: https://aquila.usm.edu/fac_pubs/22191