Updated: 10/13/23
Mosquito-borne diseases like Keystone virus have been in the news lately, but did you know that they can be prevented by taking certain steps? From avoiding mosquito habitats to wearing protective clothing and applying insect repellents, there are multiple ways you can protect yourself and your family from infection. In this blog post, we will discuss the Keystone virus and provide key insights on how to stay safe while enjoying outdoor activities. We’ll cover topics such as symptoms of Keystone Virus infections, potential risks of getting infected, as well as proactive steps for prevention. By keeping informed about this risk factor for outdoor exploration and adopting the right safeguards accordingly—you can minimize your chances of being affected by mosquito-borne diseases such as Keystone virus!
What Is Keystone Virus?
Mosquitoes are responsible for a huge number of illnesses and deaths every year. Malaria is the most infamous disease with 438,000 deaths in 2015 (x). Originally, researchers discovered Keystone virus in 1964, but for many years there were only animal cases in raccoons, squirrels and deer. The Keystone virus is a mosquito-borne virus that was first identified in the Keystone area of Hillsborough County, Florida. It belongs to the California group of viruses, which includes other mosquito-borne viruses such as La Crosse, Jamestown Canyon, and Snowshoe Hare. Then in 2018, researchers discovered the first human case in Keystone, Florida.
The case involved a 16-year-old boy. Doctors first assumed that it was the more common Zika virus, since there had been a recent outbreak, but evidence concluded otherwise. Although the patient did not have swelling in the brain, he did have a fever and a rash. There is a general belief that all mosquitoes can carry viruses, but there are actually specific virus-carrying species. The one that most commonly carries the Keystone virus is the aedes atlanticus mosquito.
There is currently no treatment plan for Keystone virus because it is a very recent occurrence in humans. At this time, doctors treat the Keystone virus like other mosquito viruses. Even though there may not be a unique treatment plan, patients should seek medical attention if they notice an adverse reactions to a mosquito bite.
Keystone Virus Symptoms
Rash
In the most recent case, the rash was the most noticeable sign of the Keystone virus. The rash started on his chest and spread to his stomach, arms, back and face. Although these symptoms seem mild, it was enough to spark doctors’ attention.
Fever
A fever is a noticeable symptom with an infection from a mosquito bite, including Keystone virus. Chemicals called pyrogens are responsible for causing fever and when they travel to the brain, they interact with receptors in the hypothalamus. This part of the brain is responsible for maintaining body temperature. A fever also raises the body temperature in order to fight off the infection. Most of the time, a body temperature over 100.4°F (38°C) indicates a fever.
Brain Inflammation
Encephalitis is a condition characterized by inflammation in the brain, one of the more serious complications of the Keystone virus. In the case in Florida, the young boy did not show symptoms of inflammation. But the Keystone virus is a classified arbovirus, a group of viruses from mosquitoes, ticks or other arthropods that can cause inflammation in the brain.
Encephalitis causes its own symptoms as well, typically fever, headache and sensitivity to light. The patient may also feel stiffness in the neck and limbs, clumsiness, drowsiness and they may have a cough. In more serious cases, the patient may have an intense headache, vomiting, nausea, disorientation, memory loss, hallucinations and difficulties hearing and speaking. The patient may even suffer from seizures or coma and it may cause aggressive behavior.
Joint Pain
Another possible symptom of Keystone virus is joint pain. This pain can be mild or quite severe and may last for several weeks.
Eye Redness
If you notice redness in one or both of your eyes, this could be another symptom of Keystone virus. This redness may be accompanied by inflammation and discharge.
Fatigue
Finally, Keystone virus can also cause possible fatigue. This can make you feel tired and weak, even if you’ve had enough rest.
Other Signs & Symptoms
Researchers do not know much about the Keystone virus because of the lack of human cases. However, since it may be similar to other mosquito bite infections and arboviruses, other symptoms may include headaches, muscle aches and pains, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.
What Causes Keystone Virus?
At this time, researchers have only identified one cause of the Keystone virus: a mosquito bite. The Keystone virus got its name from Keystone, Florida, where researchers discovered the human case. Specifically, the Keystone virus is a result of the aedes atlanticus mosquito and the virus spreads through the mosquito’s bite.
Currently, there is no vaccine for keystone virus, which means that the only way to protect yourself is to take appropriate precautions. This includes using insect repellent, wearing long clothing, and eliminating standing water around your home, which is a breeding ground for mosquitoes. If you live in an area where the virus is prevalent, it is important to be aware of the risks and take precautions year-round.
Keystone Virus Treatment
There is no specific treatment for the Keystone virus in humans. However, the patient will need medical treatment if they suffer from encephalitis. Encephalitis has a high mortality rate, between 10 and 30 percent, even with treatment. Inflammation puts an excess amount of pressure on the brain stem, which controls vital functions like blood circulation and breathing. It can be fatal if the brain cannot perform these functions.
Treatment aims to relieve the symptoms. For mild cases, the most important treatment is hydration, rest and medicine to reduce fever and headaches. Researchers have only tested a few antiviral medications for encephalitis, such as acyclovir. Corticosteroid medications may also help reduce inflammation in the brain. After that, the patient may require artificial respiration. If the patient has a seizure, the doctor administers anticonvulsant medications or sedatives. Sedatives may also help if the patient experiences mood changes such as restlessness or irritability.
If Keystone virus leads to complications, such as meningitis or encephalitis, you may need to be hospitalized. Hospitalization allows doctors to monitor your symptoms and provide supportive care as needed. Treatment may include intravenous fluids, antiviral medications, and other supportive care measures.
Rest and Hydration
The first-line treatment for Keystone virus is rest and hydration. If you are diagnosed with Keystone virus, your doctor may advise you to take plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids. This is because dehydration is one of the most common symptoms of the illness, and staying hydrated can help you recover faster.
Preventing Mosquito Bites
The best way to avoid Keystone Virus is to avoid mosquito bites. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) outlines some key steps to take to prevent mosquito bites. The majority of the time, mosquito bites are a harmless annoyance, but some areas have a lot of mosquito activity or high rates of mosquito borne diseases.
Use Insect Repellent
Always use an EPA-registered insect repellent. It should contain at least one of these active ingredients: DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD) or 2-undecanone. Read the label for instructions on how often to reapply. Also, use products with permethrin. It is very effective for killing mosquitoes and other arthropods. Spray it on clothes, shoes, bed nets and camping gear, but do not spray it on the skin.
Cover Up
Especially in areas where mosquitoes are known to carry deadly viruses, make sure to cover the skin as much as possible. Wear long sleeves and long pants.
Keep Mosquitoes out of Homes & Hotel Rooms
Avoid bug bites altogether. When traveling, stay in hotels with air-conditioning. Do not rely on screens or open windows to cool off. Use a bed net if you cannot keep mosquitoes away from your home or hotel room.
Supplements for Mosquito Bites & Infections
In addition to medical treatment or advice from a physician, patients can also use herbal supplements to help support immune health and treat infection. Some supplements may even help treat mosquito bites specifically. However, they are not a medical cure. Always consult a doctor before taking any supplements.
Vitamin B1
The mosquito-repelling properties in Vitamin B1 are subtle, and mosquitoes won’t keep away just by taking a simple pill. However, taking the recommended dosage has been shown to slightly reduce mosquito bites. Moreover, Vitamin B1 supplements can reduce the severity of mosquito bites and also help alleviate inflammation and itching.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce the swelling and irritation caused by mosquito bites. It also enhances the immune system, helping the body fight any infections caused by mosquito bites. Taking a daily dose of 1000 mg of vitamin C supplement can help prevent mosquito bites and reduce the severity of the symptoms caused by them.
Zinc
Zinc is an essential mineral that is vital for the immune system and wound healing. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce itching and redness caused by mosquito bites. Taking a daily dose of 30 mg of zinc supplements can help reduce the severity of mosquito bites and speed up the healing process of the skin.
Essential Oils
Essential oils like citronella, lemon eucalyptus, and lavender have proven to be very effective in repelling mosquitoes. You can add these oils to your bathwater or diffuser or apply them directly to your skin. These oils will not only repel mosquitoes but also leave behind a pleasant aroma.
Turmeric
Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Applying a turmeric paste on your mosquito bites can alleviate pain, inflammation, and prevent the bites from becoming infected.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has many health benefits, including its usefulness in treating mosquito bites. Applying diluted apple cider vinegar to your mosquito bites can soothe the affected area and reduce any itching or swelling.
Gymnema
Native to India, Africa and Australia, gymnema has a very long history in Ayurvedic medicine. It is a common herbal treatment in tropical regions where malaria is common. It has antiparasitic effects that may help kill mosquitoes and prevent infections altogether. As a dietary supplement, take 500 mg of gymnema extract powder once or twice a day, after consulting a doctor.
Celery Seed
Celery seed is a common herbal treatment in traditional alternative medicine and people have used it for thousands of years to address different health conditions. It is related to parsley and it contains different antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Combining it with body lotion may even help repel mosquitoes as a natural alternative to synthetic ingredients. The recommended dosage for celery seed extract powder is 1,000 mg up to three times a day, unless a doctor recommends a different dosage.
Garlic
For centuries, people have used garlic for its medicinal properties. Almost every culture around the world uses it in some way for its various health benefits. It has natural antioxidative properties that help eliminate free radicals from the body and support the immune system. Garlic may also be able to help treat infections. As a dietary supplement, take 650 mg of garlic extract powder twice a day with food. Consult a doctor before taking this supplement.
The Bottom Line
Fortunately, the first human case of Keystone virus—in Keystone, Florida—was fairly mild and the patient made a full recovery. Keystone virus is yet another example of a viral infection found in animals that eventually spreads to human populations. The mosquito that carries it is called aedes atlanticus and the illness is similar to the Zika virus. Researchers do not know much about its symptoms because there is limited research on human cases. But it can cause symptoms similar to other mosquito borne illnesses, such as fever and a rash. The virus can also cause encephalitis—swelling in the brain—which can be fatal.
Because the virus is so rare in humans, there is no specific treatment plan. Instead, doctors simply aim to address the symptoms, treating the rash, lowering the fever and trying to reduce swelling in the brain. Encephalitis has a very high mortality rate, even with treatment and it requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms of encephalitis include nausea, headache, confusion and even seizures or coma.
The best way to prevent Keystone virus or any other mosquito borne disease is to avoid exposure and bites. Take proper measures to protect yourself from mosquito bites by keeping them away from homes and hotel rooms, using insect repellent and covering the skin. Natural supplements may also help repel mosquitoes and help treat infections. But always consult a doctor before starting a supplement regimen. They are not an effective medical treatment on their own, but research proves that they may help improve overall health.