The West Nile Virus

Paper Summary:

This paper explains that, although the West Nile Virus (WN) has been around since 1937 when it was first discovered in Uganda, the summer of 1999 marks the first introduction in recent history of an Old World flavivirus into the New World. The author points out that mosquitoes are the principal vectors of the West Nile Virus; the virus has been isolated from 43 mosquito species in Africa, Asia, and the United States. The paper states that there is no specific treatment for West Nile virus infection; although, in more severe cases, intensive supportive therapy is indicated, often involving hospitalization, intravenous fluids, airway management, respiratory support (ventilator), prevention of secondary infections (pneumonia, urinary tract, etc.), and good nursing care.

From the Paper:

"Studies have shown that the West Nile Virus replicates in a wide variety of cell cultures, including chicken, duck, and mouse embryo cells and continuous cell lines from monkeys, humans, pigs, rodents, amphibians, and insects, but has not caused obvious cytopathology in many cell lines. Although we know glycosaminoglycans play a major role in flavivirus entry, there is evidence that additional host cell surface molecules are necessary for flavivirus entry. Because flaviviruses are transmitted between insect and vertebrate hosts during their natural transmission cycle, it is likely that the cell receptor they utilize is a highly conserved protein. It is known that the virions enter cells via receptor-mediated endocytosis followed by fusion of the viral membrane with the endosomal vesicle membrane releasing the nucleocapsid into the cytoplasm."

More papers on The West Nile Virus:

• Essay # 32976 : " Prevention and Control Programs for the West Nile Virus"
• Research Paper # 120381 : "West Nile Virus in Horses"
• Essay # 16841 : "West Nile Virus"

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