West Nile Virus Confirmed in Wild Birds in Zagreb; Ministry Issues Appeal

The West Nile Virus has been detected in wild birds in Zagreb, Croatia, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries announced. Laboratory tests confirmed the presence of the virus in five dead crows found in different parts of the city, including Zapruđe, Kvaternikov trg, Park Bartola Kašića, Savica, and Dubrava.

The virus is transmitted exclusively through the bite of infected mosquitoes, primarily from the Culex genus, which are common throughout Croatia. While mosquitoes usually spread the virus between birds, they can sporadically transmit it to humans and horses. However, humans and horses are considered accidental hosts and cannot spread the virus further.

In response to the findings, the Ministry is urging citizens to be vigilant. They are asked to report any instances of two or more dead wild birds found in the same location to their nearest authorized veterinary organization. This measure will help in ruling out the presence of other infectious animal diseases. For urgent reports, citizens can contact the Ministry's hotline at 099 439 2507.

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If you notice two or more dead wild birds in the same location, please report it to the nearest authorized veterinary organization so that the presence of infectious animal diseases can be ruled out if necessary.