Louisiana SSDI Lawyer Explains What You Need to Know When Applying for SSDI for West Nile Virus
In rare cases, living with West Nile virus can seriously impact your life and may prohibit you from working or functioning normally in daily life. Social Security disability insurance could give you the benefits you need. Phillip M. Hendry Law has spent over 30 years serving those who need support and guidance in the SSDI process. We’re here for you. Don’t struggle with the effects of West Nile virus alone. Talk to our skilled Louisiana SSDI lawyer to find out more about your eligibility and the next steps in the SSDI application process.
What Is West Nile Virus and How Is It Spread?
West Nile virus (WNV) is a virus that belongs to a group called flaviviruses. It’s primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito and is the leading cause of mosquito-borne illness. It can also be passed through transfusions and organ transplants. There is currently no vaccine for WNV. According to the CDC, about 1 out of every 150 people who contract West Nile Virus develop a serious or fatal illness. Protecting yourself against mosquito bites is the best defense against the virus.
Symptoms of WNV
Some common signs and symptoms of West Nile virus include:
- Headache
- Fever
- Gastrointestinal symptoms
- Rash
- Muscle or body aches and pains
- Joint pain and stiffness
- Swollen lymph glands
More severe forms of West Nile may cause:
- Changes in mental status
- Disorientation
- Seizures
- Lethargy
- Neck stiffness and pain
- Muscle weakness
- Paralysis
- Coma
- Other neurological impairments
Possible Long-Term Effects of WNV
West Nile virus can cause febrile illness, an infection in which the body’s temperature becomes elevated. It can also lead to neurological and spinal cord conditions, including meningitis (inflammation of the brain and spinal cord), encephalitis (inflammation of brain tissue), and acute flaccid myelitis (a spinal cord disorder affecting the muscles).
Although more research is needed on West Nile virus, the impact on those who have contracted the disease could be significant. According to a study on the long-term effects of West Nile, ongoing movement disorders, cognitive impairment, and functional disability may occur. Rare cases of WNV can cause serious issues like cardiac dysrhythmias, pancreatitis, hepatitis, and more. Older adults are at a higher risk of serious complications from WNV.
How West Nile Virus Could Impact Your Ability to Work
West Nile virus can impact many areas of the body. Because it can involve the nervous system, the condition can prevent the ability to adequately complete tasks required for work, defined as Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) by the Social Security Administration (SSA). The effect on muscles, joints, and other parts of the body can impede movement and coordination. West Nile Virus Neuroinvasive Disease (WNND) and other West Nile nervous system disorders are rare but serious conditions that require long-term and intensive treatment.
Exploring Your SSDI Eligibility for West Nile Virus
Many people recover from West Nile virus without serious or long-term impacts, but in some cases, it can lead to disability. Our experienced Louisiana SSDI lawyer at Phillip M. Hendry Law can help you explore your possible eligibility for West Nile. The basic eligibility requirements for SSDI include:
- Being diagnosed with a medical condition that meets the SSA’s Blue Book criteria (or equaling a listing)
- Having an impairment that prevents you from working for 12 months or more or that is expected to lead to death
- Having worked in jobs covered by Social Security and enough work credits to be eligible
- Earning no more than $1550 per month (as of 2024)
West Nile virus is not listed as a condition in the SSA Blue Book, but it may be proven to “equal” a listing of a similar neurological impairment. If your impairment isn’t eligible for SSDI, Phillip M. Hendry Law can help you determine if you can qualify for Supplementary Security Income (SSI) or a medical-vocational allowance.
Documentation Is Key for Your SSDI Application
Documentation for equaling a listing and proving your condition's physical and/or mental impacts is critical. For example, tests can show the presence of West Nile, while detailed notes from acceptable medical sources (AMS) can outline the symptoms and how they limit your ability to function. Though this part of the process can also be challenging, Phillip M. Hendry Law can help ensure you have sufficient evidence to support your claim and give you a successful chance at approval for your SSDI application.
How Phillip M. Hendry Law Can Fight for the Benefits You Deserve
Turning to Phillip M. Hendry Law means you’re working with an experienced team that knows the ins and outs of SSDI law. When you work with a qualified SSDI attorney, your chances of approval increase, plus you’ll have someone on your side to help you at every turn. Our Louisiana SSDI lawyer can help you with eligibility requirements, documentation and evidence for West Nile virus, and completing the application. We’ll help you avoid common mistakes and are prepared to help with the appeal process if needed. From start to finish, we’re there for you.