West Nile virus: health risk also growing for our region!

West Nile virus: health risk also growing for our region!

In recent weeks, West Nile virus has caused considerable concern in northern Italy. The health authorities in the Emilia-Romagna region had to report alarming increases in the number of infections and four deaths among those affected. This tropical disease, which was originally widespread primarily in warm climates, is now spreading increasingly in southern Europe and is also posing a growing challenge to public health in Germany.

The latest reports from Bologna show that 39 people in the Emilia-Romagna region have tested positive for the virus so far this year. The health authority in Modena then increased the risk level and called on the population to be vigilant. The authority has emphasized the need for special precautionary measures, particularly after the recent incident in which two other victims aged 70 and 86 died. Both of those who died already suffered from chronic illnesses, which underlines the danger of the virus for vulnerable groups.

Increasing numbers of infections and deaths

The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) reports that the West Nile virus in Europe is mainly spread by migratory birds that arrive from tropical regions. Mosquitoes, particularly the Culex genus, then transmit the virus from birds to people. Cases have been reported in 12 other countries across Europe so far this year, underscoring the spread of the virus. This is an alarming development for Germany, as infections have already been detected that indicate a potential establishment of the virus in the country.

The Modena Health Authority has stepped up mosquito control measures as part of the response to the growing threat. This includes regular cleaning of green areas and gardens and the removal of standing water that provides breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Citizens are actively encouraged to keep their surroundings clean and to carry out targeted larvicide treatments after rainfall.

Symptoms and dangers of the virus

West Nile virus can cause flu-like symptoms in those infected. Around 20 percent of those infected develop symptoms such as fever, chills, fatigue and headaches and back pain. However, in rare cases, the infection can lead to serious illnesses such as encephalitis, which can manifest as mental changes, muscle weakness and other complex neurological symptoms.

Due to the current situation, there is no approved vaccine against the virus, which puts risk groups, especially older people and patients with cardiovascular diseases, in a particularly precarious position. Health authorities advise the population to be careful and protect themselves by using mosquito repellent and wearing appropriate clothing.

The increase in the number of cases and the associated deaths illustrate the need for comprehensive prevention and surveillance measures. Tomas Jelinek, scientific director of the Center for Travel Medicine, emphasizes that the West Nile virus represents an increasing threat that not only affects southern Europe, but also Germany. Given the natural habitats and climatic conditions, it is very likely that the virus will continue to spread and become seasonal in the coming years.

The developments surrounding the West Nile virus are a strong signal for all citizens to be vigilant and take appropriate precautionary measures. Health authorities will step up their efforts to combat the disease, but community participation is essential to effectively prevent the spread of the virus.