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Ashima Sharda Mahindra • 30 Aug 2024

Sloth Fever Vs West Nile Virus: Know The Key Differences Between Symptoms Of These Deadly Infections Spreading Across US

Doctors say many vector-borne illnesses are witnessing a huge surge and some of the symptoms could overlap

Sloth Fever Vs West Nile Virus: Over the last few months, mosquitos have been touted as the world’s deadliest – as the vectors have been spreading deadly viral diseases, across the United States. Experts have blamed these buzzing insects as the main cause behind the spread of West Nile Virus, eastern equine encephalitis, and even Sloth fever – all of which have claimed casualties in various states.
Sloth fever has infected more than 20 people as of now after they were bitten by infected mosquitoes in Cuba. Similarly, West Nile Virus is also on the rise and recently, top US infectious diseases expert Dr. Anthony Fauci became infected with it.
According to doctors, many vector-borne illnesses are witnessing a huge surge and some of the symptoms could overlap. Let us understand the difference between the symptoms to know these infections better.

Sloth fever

Also known as Oropouche infection, it was first found in Trinidad and Tobago in 1955 and spread by midges and mosquito bites. Interestingly, it is called sloth fever because scientists first investigating the virus found it in a three-toed sloth, which they believe is important in the spread between insects and animals.
A few signs and symptoms of sloth fever, which are said to be similar to other tropical infections like dengue or malaria, include:
  • High fever
  • Headaches
  • Muscle aches
  • Diarrhoea
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Body rash
Doctors say that in a few rare cases, patients suffer more severe symptoms like bleeding from the gums, meningitis, and even encephalitis. Even though it is rarely fatal, two people lost their lives after contracting the virus in Brazil recently.

West Nile Virus

West Nile virus also spreads through mosquito bites but doctors say most of the infected people do not have symptoms. However, one in five will have a:
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Body aches
  • Flu-like symptoms – sore throat and swollen lymph nodes
Rarely, West Nile virus may also infect your nervous system and cause serious brain or spinal cord inflammation.

How can you prevent these illnesses?

According to experts, the best way to not get infected with these viruses is to avoid getting bitten - which means taking steps like:
  • Using a mosquito or insect repellent
  • Wearing clothing with long sleeves and long pants
  • Staying indoors
  • Regularly empty and clean any areas that may collect water like a birdbath or clogged rain gutters, where mosquitos could breed
  • Keep doors and windows screened or closed to keep mosquitos from entering your home
  • Sleep with the windows closed where possible, or use a mosquito net to keep from being bitten at night.
Local health departments also work to reduce mosquito numbers, including spraying neighborhoods with insecticide. Authorities in Massachusetts are using trucks and planes this week to spray vulnerable areas.
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