Identifying risks for severity of neurological symptoms in Hungarian West Nile virus patients

Abstract Background West Nile virus (WNV) infections have become increasingly prevalent in certain European countries, including Hungary. Although most human do not cause severe symptoms, approximately 1% of cases WNV can lead to neuroinvasive disease (WNND) and death. The goal our study was assess the neurological status changes –infected patients admitted inpatient care identify potential risk factors as underlying reasons for outcome. Methods We conducted a retrospective chart review 66 WNV-infected from four Hungarian medical centers. Patients’ at hospital admission two follow-up intervals (1st follow-up, within 60–90 days 2nd 150–180 days, after discharge) were assessed. All initial sample had some type symptoms 56 diagnosed with WNND. modified Rankin Scale (mRS) Virus Neurological Index (WNV-N Index), scoring system designed purpose this study, used assessment. Patients dichotomized into categories, “moderately severe” “severe” based on their status. Descriptive analysis description, stratified calculation odds ratio (OR) logistic regression continuous input variables, performed. Results average number between onset (the symptom interval) 6.01 days. Complications during stay arose almost fifth (18.2%) 5 died. Each day’s increase interval significantly increased developing following (0.799-fold 0.688-fold, WNV-N mRS, respectively). age, comorbidity, presence complications malaise, gait uncertainty shown be independent Conclusions Timely well assessment by clinicians - possibly an optimal tool estimating status- could improve outcome patients.