CACHE VALLEY VIRUS INFECTION

Overview and Facts

Cache valley virus infection is transmitted to humans by infected mosquitoes. However, only a few instances of this infection have been identified. All happened from late spring to early October.

Cache valley virus infection may cause sickness or more serious disease, such as infection in the lining around the spinal cord and brain (meningitis) or brain infection (encephalitis). No vaccinations or medications are available to prevent or treat the such infection.

To reduce your risk of getting sick from mosquito bites, use insect repellent and wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.

Types and Symptoms

SYMPTOMS

There have been just a few reports of cache valley virus. The incubation period (the time between a mosquito bite and the development of symptoms) is unknown, although it will likely be a few days to two weeks.

Early signs and symptoms may include:

  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Fever
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Sometimes rash

The cache valley virus infection may cause serious illness, including meningitis and encephalitis.

Meningitis and encephalitis are severe conditions characterized by the following:

  • Stiff neck
  • Loss of coordination
  • Seizures
  • Confusion
  • Difficulty speaking

Diagnosis & Medications

DIAGNOSIS

If your doctor believes you have a cache valley virus infection, they may request two tests: viral culture and antibodies. Antibodies are proteins created to eliminate foreign particles, while viral culture checks for viral growth in blood, tissue samples, or cerebrospinal fluid. The results should be submitted to local health authorities to prepare for any outbreaks.

TREATMENT

Currently, no drugs are available to treat or manage cache valley virus infection. Antibiotics do not treat viruses.

Particularly severe instances of the cache valley virus will need supportive care. Treatment may involve intravenous fluids or anti-vomiting drugs. Moreover, individuals suffering from meningitis or encephalitis may need further supportive treatment.

Encephalitis support methods may include:

  • Breathing tubes if you’ve lost consciousness
  • Urinary catheter if you’ve lost consciousness
  • Anti Seizure medications
  • Feeding tubes if you’ve lost consciousness

Meningitis supportive care may include:

  • Corticosteroids to treat brain swelling
  • Anti-seizure medications

Furthermore, individuals who have serious diseases often need hospitalization so that they may get help for breathing, maintaining their hydration levels, or lowering the swelling in their brains.

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