North Macedonia registers fifth West Nile virus death
A fifth death connected to West Nile virus was registered Saturday in North Macedonia, which is conducting extensive fumigation against mosquitoes, the country's health authorities said.
North Macedonia recorded a fifth death linked to the West Nile virus on Saturday, as the country intensifies mosquito control efforts, health officials reported. The Balkan nation has documented at least 43 cases of the mosquito-borne illness, most of which have emerged in the past three weeks, according to the Health Ministry. The Infectious Disease Clinic's director, Fadil Cana, noted that approximately 20 to 21 patients are currently hospitalized due to the virus.
Earlier this month, health authorities declared epidemics in several municipalities within the capital, Skopje, and the surrounding regions. Health Minister Saso Klekovski urged citizens to take preventive measures, such as draining water sources and reporting deceased birds to authorities, as these animals may serve as reservoirs for the virus.
Intensive ground and aerial mosquito control measures have been implemented in Skopje and other areas, particularly around irrigation canals and water bodies. West Nile virus was first identified in the country in 2011, with a total of 54 confirmed cases by the conclusion of 2025. In Europe, human infections predominantly occur during the mosquito season, which typically spans late spring to autumn, with transmission peaking between July and September.
The World Health Organization states that there are no approved human vaccines or specific treatments for the virus. While mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus are prevalent in Europe, the Asian tiger mosquito, capable of transmitting dengue and chikungunya viruses, has established itself in 16 European countries, double the number from a decade prior, according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.
North Macedonia has recorded 43 West Nile virus cases and five fatalities, with around 20 to 21 patients receiving hospital care. Authorities declared local epidemics around Skopje and escalated mosquito control efforts, while advising residents to eliminate standing water and report dead birds. No approved human vaccine or targeted treatment for the virus currently exists.
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