In six short years, the West Nile virus has established itself as a fact of life in North America.  The West Nile virus is a mosquito borne virus that finds its way to humans through mosquito bites. The vast majority of infected people don’t even feel sick but people older than 50 years with chronic medical conditions and those receiving immunosuppression are at higher risk of severe disease, which may include meningoencephalitis and death.

As each new season approaches, scientists attempt to predict how bad the season will be, but history shows that the West Nile virus defies prognostication.  Experts advise, “just assume that West Nile virus is here, and that it is here to stay”.

It is extremely important that healthcare providers evaluate and test all persons suspected of West Nile virus infection.  This will not only help with rapid assessment for a particular patient but also alert the local health authorities of a potential outbreak.

Spectral's RapidWN™ West Nile Virus IgM Test is a 15 minute test that can provide health care professionals with the ability to rapidly determine exposure to West Nile virus. The assay is simple to use and can accommodate single testing or high volume patient screening.