Emerged as a distinct virus around 1000 years ago and first detected in the Western Hemisphere in 1999, the deadly West Nile virus has since rapidly spread across the North American continent into all 48 continental states, seven Canadian provinces, and throughout Mexico. It has been tested positive for over 15,000 people in the U.S. and have also killed 500 in the course!
The virus is deadly, more importantly, as no vaccine for humans has yet been discovered. The mosquito vector-transmitting virus generally bites and infects birds.
The virus that attacks with mild or no symptoms has been unknown in North America even just a decade ago.
But, what kept the scientists baffled is the mystery behind the virus’ being so deadly!
But, some impertinent scientists have recently decoded the reason as well – it’s a single genetic mutation. Yes, the mutation alone makes the virus far more virulent, increasing mortality in wild birds and, almost certainly, in humans.
Exposed to a more lethal strain, it can result in tremors, fever and even coma in humans! It can also lead to a lethal swelling of the brain tissue called ‘encephalitis’.
Astoundingly, the mutation enhances the virus’ fitness and ability to replicate — making it easier for the disease not just adapt rapidly to changing environments, but also produce unpredictable consequences for human health.
Hope the finding of this shocking nature of the virus’ mutation will help develop anti-viral therapies and save the world for the increasingly spreading killer-disease.