West Nile Virus Epidemic Claims at Least 5 Lives in North Macedonia

North Macedonia is grappling with an epidemic of the West Nile virus, which has claimed the lives of at least five people, according to the country's health authorities. A total of 43 cases have been confirmed, with a significant number occurring in the past three weeks. "New patients are admitted almost daily, and currently, 20 to 21 people are hospitalized," stated Fadil Cana, director of the Clinic for Infectious Diseases.

In response to the escalating situation, authorities declared an epidemic state of emergency in several municipalities around the capital, Skopje, and surrounding areas in early August. Large-scale mosquito control measures, including aerial and ground spraying, have been conducted in Skopje and other regions, particularly near irrigation canals and water-rich zones. Health Minister Saso Klekovski urged residents to take precautions, even suggesting emptying swimming pools. He also requested that citizens report any dead birds, which are considered potential reservoirs for the virus, to the authorities.

Globally, the West Nile virus remains a concern. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) reported that 12 European countries have documented cases this year, including Albania, Austria, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Kosovo, the Netherlands, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, and Spain. In Belgium, the virus was confirmed in a horse earlier this month. The ECDC notes that human infections in Europe typically occur during the mosquito season, from late spring to autumn, peaking between July and September. The World Health Organization states that there are no vaccines or specific treatments for the virus; care is limited to managing symptoms and providing hospital support for severe cases.

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New patients are admitted almost daily, and currently, 20 to 21 people are hospitalized.