Which age group is most likely to have severe symptoms from La Crosse encephalitis?

Children are the age group most likely to experience severe symptoms from La Crosse encephalitis because this mosquito-borne viral infection tends to affect younger populations more significantly. Their immune systems may not be fully developed, making them more vulnerable to neuroinvasive diseases like La Crosse encephalitis.

The virus primarily affects children between the ages of 5 and 15, leading to symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, and neurological manifestations in some cases. Additionally, the likelihood of hospitalization and the potential for more severe outcomes, including seizures or long-term complications, is higher in this demographic.

Older adults typically have stronger immune responses, and while they can also contract such diseases, the incidence and severity of La Crosse encephalitis in them are considerably lower. Teenagers, while still part of the younger population, generally have a greater immune response compared to younger children, diminishing the risk of severe outcomes. Infants, however, do have some vulnerability, but the highest risk group remains specifically within the childhood age range, particularly school-aged children. Thus, the data supports that children are the most affected by La Crosse encephalitis, reinforcing the need for targeted prevention and awareness strategies in this age group.