Dr. Anthony Fauci, the former director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and a key figure in the controversial U.S. response to the COVID-19 pandemic, is recovering at home after being quietly hosptialized for six days.
Fauci, 83, described the hospitalization, reportedly from West Nile Virus, as the worst illness of his life.
“I really felt like I’d been hit by a truck,” he said. “I have to tell you, I’ve never been as sick in my life. Ever. By far, this is the worst I’ve ever been with an illness.”
Fauci reported symptoms including a fever that rose to 103 Fahrenheit, “shaking chills,” and extreme weakness. Despite the severity of his symptoms, Fauci did not develop the neuroinvasive form of the disease, which occurs in about 1 in 150 cases.
A spokesperson for Fauci stated that “a full recovery is expected,” though Fauci himself acknowledged the recovery process would be lengthy. ”
The good news is I’m absolutely going in the right direction,” he said. “The sobering news is that it’s going to take weeks and weeks to get back to normal.”
West Nile virus, transmitted by mosquitoes, is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the continental United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the virus sent 1,800 people to the hospital last year and was responsible for 182 deaths. As of August 20, 2024, 216 cases have been reported across 33 states this year.
The CDC notes that while an estimated 80% of those infected experience no symptoms, others may suffer from headaches, fever, and vomiting.
In severe cases, the virus can lead to brain swelling and even death. Currently, there are no known specific treatments for West Nile virus.
Fauci’s hospitalization comes nearly two years after his retirement from his role as chief of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, a position he held for almost four decades. During his tenure, he was the highest-paid federal employee with an eye-watering annual salary of $480,654.
As Fauci recovers, his illness serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by infectious diseases, even to those most knowledgeable in the field. It also underscores the importance of continued research and vigilance in public health.