Saint Louis Encephalitis is a virus, related to West Nile virus,
transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito. Culex tarsalis and to
a lesser extent Culex
pipiens are the mosquito species responsible for
transmitting St. Louis Encephalitis.
St. Louis Encephalitis is similar to West Nile virus in that it
is primarily a bird-mosquito disease. A mosquito will bite a bird
infected with St. Louis Encephalitis and become infected. While
looking for another blood meal, an infected mosquito can infect
an uninfected bird or human.
What are the signs and symptoms of St. Louis Encephalitis?
No Symptoms: Most of those infected with St.
Louis Encephalitis will have no symptoms or signs and never
feel sick
Mild Symptoms: Most of those who do have
symptoms or signs will have a fever and headaches
Severe Symptoms: Few of those infected have
the severe symptoms such as high fever, severe headaches, coma,
tremors, convulsions, paralysis, and possible death
Is St. Louis Encephalitis seasonal?
Yes, it is most likely to occur in late summer to early fall.
Is St. Louis Encephalitis in San Mateo County?
St. Louis Encephalitis is sometimes detected in Southern
California but has not been found in San Mateo County recently.
