Institute of Public Health: Infectious disease cases in North Macedonia rose by 22%

In North Macedonia, 1,042 cases of acute infectious diseases were reported in September, 22 percent more than in the same month last year. Enterocolitis accounted for the largest share, with 694 cases, while chickenpox was recorded in 123 people.

The Institute of Public Health singled out West Nile fever as a concern: 16 cases were confirmed in September, and four people died from the disease.

Children’s return to schools and kindergartens has been accompanied by more outpatient visits for respiratory infections at the “Kozle” University Clinic for Children’s Diseases.

Dr. Filip Doksimovski of the clinic said it currently has no confirmed cases of influenza. According to him, both the number of patients seen within a 24-hour period and the number of hospitalized children are at expected levels for this time of year. He said the figures had risen compared with the summer months and early September, but that this was expected with the arrival of autumn and children’s return to group settings.

Seasonal flu vaccinations are continuing across the country. People over 65 and those with chronic illnesses are showing the greatest interest, booking vaccinations through the “Termini Im” system.

Data from the Institute of Public Health show that two cases of influenza A have been confirmed so far. Another 65 cases with flu-like symptoms have been recorded, but laboratory tests have not confirmed them.

Meanwhile, a shipment of Japanese tuberculosis vaccines is expected to arrive. The use of Bulgarian vaccines had been suspended because of concerns about their quality.

Eight new HIV/AIDS cases were recorded in September, and two people died. The Institute of Public Health reports that, as of September 30, 2026, a total of 49 cases had been reported during 2026. For the period from 1987 to 2026, the cumulative number of people registered with HIV/AIDS in North Macedonia is 778. Of these, 144 have died, 520 are living with HIV/AIDS, and 114 are considered lost to follow-up, including people who have moved away.

Also in September, five cases of hepatitis B and four of whooping cough were recorded in Skopje. The capital had the highest number of infectious disease cases, 385 in total, while the highest incidence was recorded in Shtip.

Last month, 12 new COVID-19 cases were also reported, with no deaths.

Health authorities are urging residents to follow recommendations to prevent the spread of infections: wash their hands regularly, ventilate indoor spaces, avoid close contact with sick people and maintain a healthy lifestyle.