North Macedonia reports one death from West Nile fever

North Macedonia has confirmed its first fatality from West Nile fever this year, as announced by Fadil Cana, director of the University Clinic for Infectious Diseases in Skopje. The patient, an 83-year-old man from Skopje, succumbed to the neuroinvasive form of the virus and had several accompanying health issues.

Cana reported that five additional patients are currently in critical condition, receiving intensive care and requiring mechanical ventilation. Since May 15, the clinic has hospitalized a total of 29 patients with suspected neuroinvasive West Nile virus, with 25 cases confirmed through laboratory tests. Eight patients have recovered.

The Ministry of Health stated that 26 cases of West Nile fever have been registered nationwide since May 15, with 25 in Skopje and one in Veles. The majority of those infected are over 60 years old, indicating a higher risk for the elderly population. In response to the outbreak, the Skopje Center for Public Health declared an epidemic in several municipalities and neighborhoods within the city to enhance monitoring and prevention efforts.