West Nile Fever Outbreak Declared an Epidemic in Several Skopje Municipalities

An epidemic has been declared since yesterday in several affected areas of Skopje, Zlatko Arsienievski of the Skopje Public Health Center announced. The measure covers the municipalities of Kisella Voda, Gazi Baba, Aerodrom, Butel and Ilinden, as well as the settlements of Dračevo, Pržino, Dolno Lisiče, Kadino and Jurumleri.

The Ministry of Health explained that West Nile fever is not a new disease, as cases have also been recorded in previous years.

Andovski stressed that the public is being informed promptly and transparently about the situation. According to him, a stronger institutional response has become necessary this year because of the current epidemiological situation, the number of confirmed cases and the activity of the virus.

He said developments are being monitored in coordination with the Institute of Public Health, the Public Health Centers, the Commission for Infectious Diseases and the Clinic for Infectious Diseases. The aim is to detect and treat cases promptly while also preventing new cases from emerging.

According to Andovski, there is no reason to panic, but citizens should exercise caution and act responsibly. He urged them to follow personal protective measures, wear appropriate clothing and avoid places where the risk of exposure to mosquitoes is higher.

The Ministry of Health announced that it will continue to inform the public promptly and transparently about any significant changes in the situation related to the disease.