The Veterinary Services have confirmed, through laboratory testing, the presence of West Nile virus in horses in the Paralimni area. According to the department, five horses have been affected so far.
No risk of transmission between animals or to humans
Authorities were emphatic that the virus cannot be transmitted from horses to humans, nor from animal to animal. Transmission occurs exclusively through the bite of infected mosquitoes, with horses and humans considered incidental hosts that do not themselves act as a source of further spread.
Protocols activated, EU and international bodies notified
Immediately after the cases were confirmed, the Veterinary Services activated the protocols in place for epidemiological investigation and monitoring of the area. The Health Ministry was formally notified, and the cases were reported to the European Commission and the World Organisation for Animal Health.
Coordinated response under way
The response is being managed jointly by the relevant state departments. While the Veterinary Services continue to monitor developments among animals, the Health Services have taken charge of surveillance and mosquito population control efforts. The competent authorities said they continue to assess epidemiological data in order to determine whether any additional measures are needed, with the stated aim of protecting both animal and public health.
