Six-year-old dies from West Nile virus in Banja Luka

S.M., a six-year-old boy from Banja Luka, died last night from complications of West Nile virus infection, it was announced by the University Hospital - Clinical Center Banja Luka, reports the BH News Agency Patria. 

According to the statement, the boy was admitted to the intensive care unit of the Pediatric Clinic on August 7 due to fever, vomiting, and altered consciousness and behavior.

According to the head of the Pediatric Clinic, Stojislav Konjević, the patient underwent initial examination immediately upon admission. From the beginning, there was suspicion of viral encephalitis, and serology for viruses was taken immediately upon admission.

"During the night, convulsions occurred and the clinical condition worsened, in terms of respiratory failure, which required respiratory support for breathing as well as resuscitation measures. A CT scan showed pronounced diffuse brain edema. The patient received all necessary therapy," the statement said.

However, in the further course of treatment, the patient's coma deepened and their health condition worsened.

"A control CT scan and MRI showed worsening of brain edema with herniation, and signs of brain death, which was confirmed by clinical tests and an apnea test," they explained, adding that the patient, who had been in an unchanged health condition for days, was connected to breathing apparatus with necessary therapy.

Otherwise, as stated, the boy had previously stayed at the seaside, where he was most likely infected.

"This is a sporadic case and there is no danger of an epidemic because the disease is not specific to our area," the health institution stated.

Let us remind you, West Nile is a virus transmitted by mosquitoes.

Prevention of infection consists of protection against mosquito bites, which are carriers of the disease.

"This case, in accordance with the rules, was duly reported to the Institute for the Protection of Health of the Republic of Srpska," said the University Hospital - Clinical Center Banja Luka in the statement.