Summary
Researchers have found traces of the West Nile virus in a wetland area in Nottinghamshire, UK. Experts say the spread of the virus and other tropical diseases to new areas is likely due to climate change. Currently, there are no recorded cases of people in the UK catching the virus locally.
Key Facts
- The UK Health Security Agency discovered the West Nile virus in a wetland in Retford, Nottinghamshire.
- The virus can cause fever in about 20% of infected people, and serious disease in about 1 out of 150 infected.
- The virus is spread by mosquitoes and birds, but humans can also get infected if bitten by an infected mosquito.
- There have been no human cases of the virus caught locally in the UK.
- Climate change is likely to expand the range of mosquito-borne diseases, according to experts.
- A national project is monitoring mosquito activity, including in Retford, to better understand and manage the threat.
- People can protect themselves from the virus by avoiding mosquito bites, such as by using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing.
- The UK Health Security Agency is working with local councils to keep an eye on mosquito activity in certain areas.
