West Nile Virus: A Comprehensive Overview of Epidemiology and Pathology

West Nile Virus (WNV), a Flavivirus, has become a global public health concern since its discovery in 1937. This arthropod-borne virus exhibits diverse clinical manifestations in humans, ranging from asymptomatic infections to severe neurological complications, transmitted primarily by mosquitoes and affecting both humans and other mammals. This book chapter provides a concise yet thorough exploration of WNV, covering molecular biology, host interactions, transmission dynamics, clinical outcomes, diagnostics, and therapeutics. Navigating through viral replication pathways and host interactions, it delves into factors influencing WNV epidemiology. The chapter also addresses challenges to public health systems and ongoing efforts in prevention and control. For researchers, healthcare professionals, and students, this resource offers insights into WNV’s impact on human and animal health. Covering historical context, transmission details, clinical manifestations, viral structure, replication processes, pathogenesis, immune response, virulence factors, diagnostics, therapeutics, and prevention, this chapter serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding the epidemiology and pathology of WNV.