Follow Al Rai
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) announced on Thursday that 1,715 cases of West Nile virus had been recorded in European Union countries as of October 7, "the highest number ever recorded."
In a statement, the center called for continued prevention, surveillance, and mosquito control efforts, following the detection of its spread in new northern regions of Europe.
The statement explained that Italy was the most affected country, with 748 recorded cases.
It noted that Greece and France also recorded the highest numbers of infections in their history.
The statement added that the virus has caused 130 deaths in the European Union since the beginning of the season.
However, it noted that there are no indications that the disease has taken a more dangerous course this year, despite the record number of infections.
It pointed out that hospitalization rates, the onset of neurological symptoms, and mortality rates remained below the levels recorded over the past ten years.
— Infections in Belgium and the Netherlands
The statement indicated that the discovery of the virus in humans and animals in Belgium and the Netherlands confirms its arrival in new northern regions of Europe.
The Netherlands recorded 59 cases this year, compared to 15 cases in Belgium.
The center expects the virus to continue spreading northward in the coming years.
It emphasized the importance of strengthening surveillance and preparedness according to the "One Health" approach, which links human, animal, and environmental health.
— Continued transmission of infection
The statement explained that the environmental conditions favorable for virus transmission have begun to decline with the end of summer, but the spread of infection may continue at lower rates over the coming weeks, with new cases expected to be recorded.
The center advised residents in areas where the virus is spreading, as well as travelers to those areas, to use mosquito repellent, wear long, loose-fitting clothing during the evening and night, and use window screens and mosquito nets while sleeping.
— What is the West Nile virus?
The West Nile virus is primarily transmitted through the bites of "Culex" mosquitoes, and there is no vaccine available yet to prevent it; therefore, it is advised to take measures to protect against mosquito bites.
The incubation period for the virus ranges from two to 14 days, and may extend to 21 days in people with weakened immune systems.
About 80 percent of those infected show no symptoms, while about 20 percent suffer from symptoms including fever, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, headache, and muscle pain.
The virus was initially detected in Africa, before gradually spreading to several European countries, including France, Italy, Spain, and Portugal.
Know more about this story?Send us a tip
Ask about this report — answers stay grounded in its text.
