A85.2

Clinical Causes: Mosquito bites infected with the Japanese encephalitis virus or West Nile virus Tick bites carrying the St. Louis encephalitis virus Other arthropod vectors carrying viruses that can infect the brain and nervous system Travel to or residing in regions with high endemic rates of arboviral infections Lack of protective measures against vector bites, such as using insect repellent or bed nets

Key Symptoms: High fever Severe headache Neck stiffness Sensitivity to light (photophobia) Altered mental state, including confusion or disorientation Seizures in some cases Weakness or paralysis Loss of consciousness Nausea and vomiting

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history assessment, by noting recent travel to areas with known outbreaks, and physical examination. Laboratory tests such as blood tests, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, and neuroimaging may be used to confirm the presence of inflammation and to exclude other causes of encephalitis. Specific viral testing can identify the infectious agent, but situations may arise where the virus remains unidentified, leading to the classification under the unspecified category.

Treatment Protocols: There is no specific antiviral treatment for arthropod-borne viral encephalitis. Supportive care remains the mainstay of management and may include hospitalization for monitoring, intravenous fluids, pain management, and measures to control seizures if they occur. Recovery can vary widely, with some patients experiencing complete recovery, while others may have lingering neurological deficits. Prevention strategies focus on avoiding insect bites through protective clothing, insect repellents, and eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed.