Warning after Dutch blood donor infected with West Nile virus
A case of West Nile virus has been detected in a Dutch blood donor in the first infection of its...
In a rare occurrence, a blood donor in Utrecht province has been diagnosed with West Nile virus, marking the first such case in the Netherlands in six years. The public health agency RIVM confirmed the virus after the individual reported mild symptoms of West Nile fever. Blood bank Sanquin subsequently tested several samples, confirming the virus's presence in 80% of those infected, typically without symptoms.
However, 1% of cases can lead to neurological issues, primarily affecting those over 50 with weakened immune systems. In rare instances, it can be fatal. While West Nile virus primarily affects birds, it can be transmitted to humans and other animals by mosquitoes. No human-to-human transmission is known. The virus has also been detected in a horse and a bird in various Dutch locations, indicating active mosquito transmission.
The RIVM advised preventive measures such as wearing long sleeves, using mosquito repellent, and employing screens or nets to deter mosquitoes. Despite the risk of contracting the virus in the Netherlands being small, the agency urged caution. Dutch News, free to access, relies on reader donations to continue its vital reporting on important Dutch news.
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