Latvian Food Safety, Animal Health and Environment Research Institute Bior has confirmed the first Latvian case of West Nile virus infection in a dead bird, as reported by BIOR representatives.
The West Nile virus was found in a sample taken from the carcass of a Eurasian goshawk. The carcass was sent in to the institute to determine the cause of death.
BIOR representatives note that the West Nile virus is an infection transmitted by mosquitoes. It primarily affects birds and horses. Other animals are affected more rarely. Birds are hosts to the virus, but human may become infected as well. However, it does not spread from one human to another.
In most cases, West Nile virus causes a mild acute fever – a flu-like illness, while in rare cases the symptoms of encephalitis develop as well.
In birds, the course and clinical signs of West Nile fever infection can range from mild, non-specific clinical signs, such as general weakness, loss of appetite, to neurological signs, such as impaired coordination, leg paresis, or seizures that can result in death.
The cases of West Nile virus uncovered closest to Latvia were in Poland.
BIOR representatives note that as a result of climate changes, the infectious diseases and their vectors from the south gradually move and spread to our latitudes.
BIOR has informed the Food and Veterinary Service (PVD) of this infection.
PVD notes that West Nile virus is an infection that can affect both humans and animals. The virus is carried by mosquitoes, including C.modestus, which are found in Latvia as well. Wild birds are hosts and the main transmission vector of the virus.
West Nile virus is endemic (persistent in the population) in various regions and countries around the world, such as Africa, Israel, western Turkey, the Middle East, India, North America, and Central America.
In Europe, individual cases are reported annually, as well as seasonal outbreaks in southern, eastern and western European countries, according to PVD.
To keep people and animals safe, it is highly important to strictly follow bio-safety regulations, PVD stresses.
BIOR is one of the leading research, laboratory and knowledge transfer centers in the Baltics. Based on innovative research methods, the institute creates practically applicable knowledge in areas such as public and environmental health, food, fisheries and veterinary medicine.
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