West Nile virus spreads in North Macedonia, 35 confirmed cases and 4 dead

North Macedonia is facing a worrying epidemiological situation, as the number of people affected by West Nile virus has reached 35, while four people have died. Most of the cases have been recorded in the Skopje region.

Those affected are mainly over the age of 60. In some cases, the infection has caused the severe neuroinvasive form of the disease, which has manifested as encephalitis or meningitis. Some patients are being treated at the University Clinic for Infectious Diseases in Skopje, while others are in intensive care units.

As a measure to curb the spread of the virus, the authorities have declared an epidemic in several municipalities of Skopje. At the same time, measures to control mosquitoes and epidemiological monitoring have been intensified.

The spread of the disease has accelerated significantly over a short period. At the end of July, only eight cases had been reported, while after several weeks the figure rose to 35. This is considered one of the most serious outbreaks in the country since the virus was first recorded in 2011.

Health authorities have urged citizens to protect themselves with insect repellents, limit time spent outdoors at night, and eliminate standing water in yards and on balconies.