Introduction:
Mosquitoes are known for spreading infections; malaria and dengue fever are just a few of them. An infection caused by a mosquito bite called Kunjin is one of the lesser known viral infections. Interestingly, Kunjin virus, which belongs to the Flaviviridae family, is closely related to West Nile virus. In fact, it is frequently referred to as the West Nile virus Kunjin subtype. Humans are infected with this virus by being bitten by an infected mosquito. While only a few cases of the Kunjin virus are reported every year, the virus is prevalent in various regions across Australia. To avoid getting bit by an infected mosquito, it is important to take the right precautions, like wearing protective clothing and using insect repellents.
What Is Kunjin Infection?
Kunjin infection is an infection caused by the Kunjin virus. Kunjin virus is a type of arbovirus (arthropod-borne virus) that belongs to the Flaviviridae family. It has a close connection to other flaviviruses like the West Nile virus, Japanese encephalitis virus, and Murray Valley encephalitis virus. This virus is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes, particularly the Culex annulirostris mosquito, which is found in parts of Australia.
Furthermore, this infection is generally considered to be a mild illness, with most people experiencing no symptoms at all or only mild symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, and a rash. However, in rare cases, severe neurological complications such as encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) can occur, which can lead to permanent brain damage or death.
Currently, no specific medication or vaccine is available for Kunjin virus infection, and treatment is mainly supportive to relieve symptoms.
Who Are at Risk of Getting Kunjin Infection?
Individuals who reside, work, or travel to rural regions of New South Wales that contain rivers, wetlands, flooded areas, or heavily irrigated zones are susceptible to contracting Kunjin virus infection.
What Are the Symptoms of the Kunjin Infection?
As mentioned earlier, most people infected with Kunjin virus do not experience any symptoms at all. However, in those who do, the symptoms can include:
The symptoms typically manifest themselves anywhere from three to seven days after being bitten by an infected mosquito, and they can continue for anywhere from several days to a week.
In very rare situations, serious neurological problems like encephalitis can happen, which can cause symptoms like seizures, confusion, and paralysis.
It is crucial to note that the signs of a Kunjin virus infection can be similar to those of other viral infections, like the flu. Because of this, lab tests are usually used to find the virus in the blood or cerebrospinal fluid and make a diagnosis.
How Does Kunjin Infection Spread?
Kunjin virus is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes, particularly the Culex annulirostris mosquito. These mosquitoes become infected with the virus when they feed on infected animals such as waterbirds and horses, which are the primary hosts for Kunjin virus. The virus is then able to replicate within the mosquito's body, and can be transmitted to humans and other animals when the infected mosquito feeds again.
The Culex annulirostris mosquito is found in freshwater habitats, such as swamps and wetlands, and is particularly common in the Murray Darling River basin areas of New South Wales during the summer and autumn months. Wading birds, such as herons, are also associated with the spread of the virus to mosquitoes, as they are a common host for the virus.
It is important to note that Kunjin virus cannot be spread directly from person to person, meaning that it is not contagious. Instead, the virus requires an intermediary host, such as the Culex annulirostris mosquito, in order to be transmitted between animals and humans.
How Is Kunjin Infection Diagnosed?
To diagnose a Kunjin virus infection, healthcare providers may perform blood tests or check for the presence of the virus in the cerebrospinal fluid or CSF (a fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord). In addition, Kunjin virus cases require both laboratory and clinical evidence. In the lab, virus isolation, nucleic acid testing, IgG seroconversion, or looking for virus-specific IgM in cerebrospinal fluid or serum are all ways to confirm the diagnosis. Additionally, if the patient has symptoms of kunjin infection in an outbreak of kunjin infection, the diagnosis becomes more straightforward.
How Can Kunjin Infection Be Prevented?
Unfortunately, there is no vaccine for Kunjin virus disease. The only way for individuals to prevent the disease is to avoid being bitten by infected mosquitoes. In order to avoid getting bit by mosquitoes that could spread Kunjin:
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People should stay indoors when mosquitoes are most active, from just before sunset after dawn.
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Loose, light-colored clothing with long sleeves, long trousers, and socks should be worn (mosquitoes can bite through tight-fitting clothes).
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A protective repellent containing up to 20 percent diethyltoluamide (DEET), picaridin, and oil of lemon eucalyptus, should be used on skin that is exposed and re-applied as directed by the manufacturer. Lotions and gels are more effective and long-lasting than sprays.
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Other mosquito protection devices such as mosquito lanterns can be used.
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Residual pyrethroids can be applied around the home or campsite and to nearby shrubbery that provides a harbor for mosquitoes.
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Flyscreens in houses or caravans should be in good condition.
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If camping out, people should sleep in a mosquito-proof tent or under a mosquito net. This is because repellents only protect against mosquito bites for up to four hours, not all night.
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Cover all windows, doors, vents, and other entrances with screens to repel insects.
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Eliminate all water-holding containers from areas where mosquitoes might breed.
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Apply insecticide sprays, vapor dispensing units (inside), and mosquito coils (outdoors) to clear rooms and repel mosquitoes from an area.
What Is the Treatment of Kunjin Infection?
Currently, there is no particular treatment available for Kunjin virus infection. In certain circumstances, hospitalization or even intensive care may be required. Kunjin virus infection is diagnosed by conducting antibody tests on blood samples. Two blood samples are typically required for diagnosis, with the first being taken while the person is symptomatic and the second two weeks later to check for changes in antibody levels.
Since there is no cure available for this disease, only medical professionals can provide guidance on how to manage the symptoms and what treatment is required based on the particular symptoms.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Kunjin infection may not be a very serious infection, but it can make some people very sick. As a result, it is essential to be aware of this disease and take all necessary precautions to prevent mosquito bites. It is necessary not only to prevent this disease but also other mosquito-borne illnesses.
