The continued rise in West Nile virus cases is causing concern in North Macedonia, where health authorities have so far recorded 35 confirmed cases and four deaths.
The outbreak has been concentrated mainly in the Skopje region, with most patients aged over 60. Some have developed severe neuroinvasive forms of the disease, including encephalitis and meningitis.
According to reports by Euronews, several patients are being treated at the University Clinic for Infectious Diseases in Skopje, while others are receiving intensive care.
In response to the outbreak, authorities have declared an epidemic in several municipalities in Skopje, while mosquito-control measures and epidemiological surveillance have been strengthened.
The increase in cases has been particularly rapid. At the end of July, only eight cases had been recorded, but within just a few weeks the number had risen to 35.
This makes this year’s outbreak one of the most serious the country has faced since West Nile virus was first detected in North Macedonia in 2011.
Health authorities have urged residents to take precautionary measures, including using insect repellent, avoiding outdoor exposure at night, and removing standing water from yards and balconies, where mosquitoes can breed.
