Discovery of Wetland Virus (WELV)
Scientists have identified a new tick-borne virus called Wetland virus (WELV), discovered in China. It belongs to the orthonairovirus family and was first observed in a 61-year-old man from Inner Mongolia in 2019. Initially misdiagnosed, the virus was identified after the patient sought treatment for persistent fever and multiple organ dysfunction, following a tick bite.
Symptoms and Spread of WELV
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Researchers from the Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology isolated WELV from the patient. Symptoms in infected individuals included fever, headache, dizziness, muscle pain, and in some cases, neurological issues. The virus, detected in ticks, sheep, horses, pigs, and rodents in northeastern China, has been linked to brain damage in lab animals.
Potential Risks and Comparisons
WELV bears similarities to the Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, which can lead to severe symptoms such as liver failure and hemorrhaging. The virus has deadly potential, but it spreads slowly, primarily through tick bites, making it less contagious than respiratory viruses. Researchers stress the importance of early detection to mitigate risks.
Preventive Measures Against Tick Bites
To reduce the risk of contracting tick-borne diseases like WELV, experts recommend avoiding areas where ticks are common, such as grassy or wooded locations. The CDC advises treating clothing with permethrin, using insect repellents containing DEET, and checking for ticks after outdoor activities to prevent infection.
