Dr. Anthony Fauci, the former director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, was recently hospitalized for six days after contracting the West Nile virus. A spokesperson for Fauci confirmed that he is now recovering at home and is expected to make a full recovery.
Fauci’s hospitalization was a precautionary measure, as the 83-year-old is considered to be at higher risk for developing severe symptoms due to his age. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 20 percent of people who contract the West Nile virus experience symptoms such as fever, head and body aches, vomiting, diarrhea, and rashes.
In rare cases, the virus can cause more serious symptoms that impact the central nervous system, including encephalitis or meningitis. The CDC reports that about one in 150 people who contract the virus develop these severe illnesses, and approximately 10 percent of those individuals die.
Fauci’s spokesperson did not disclose how he contracted the virus, but the CDC notes that West Nile virus is most commonly spread through mosquito bites. The agency reports that over 2,200 cases of the virus are reported in the U.S. each year.
While there is no specific treatment for West Nile virus, the CDC recommends rest, fluids, and pain medications to relieve symptoms. Fauci’s hospitalization and subsequent recovery serve as a reminder of the importance of taking precautions to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses, particularly during peak mosquito season.
