Cyprus does not appear to be experiencing widespread transmission of West Nile virus, according to Professor of Microbiology Dr Petros Karayiannis. He nevertheless urged the public to adopt simple but effective measures to reduce the risk of mosquito bites.
Who faces the greatest risk
Speaking to the Cyprus News Agency, Karayiannis said people aged over 60, particularly those with underlying health conditions, are more likely to develop a severe reaction.
Possible complications include encephalitis and meningitis, as the virus can affect the central nervous system.
Simple protection measures
Karayiannis advised everyone, not only older people or those with underlying conditions, to wear long-sleeved clothing and use insect repellent when outdoors, particularly near areas with stagnant water.
Standing water should not be left in containers around homes, as it can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes that transmit the virus.
He also urged hunters heading out on Sunday to wear long clothing and use insect repellent. Mosquitoes are most active during the evening and early morning, when many hunters are likely to be outdoors.
No airport measures recommended
Karayiannis said no special measures were required at airports because the virus is carried by birds, particularly members of the crow family. Mosquitoes acquire West Nile virus from infected wild birds.
He advised members of the public not to approach dead birds if several are found in the same area.
Open areas containing stagnant water can also become mosquito breeding grounds. Reservoirs pose a lower risk because the water moves and fish are present, he said.
Spraying should focus mainly on salt lakes that are currently drying out, as well as riverbeds where water accumulated following the recent rainfall.
Karayiannis also warned that changing weather patterns linked to the climate crisis could further affect the situation in the coming years.
Symptoms are usually mild
For most people, symptoms are mild. Anyone who develops a flu-like illness accompanied by severe muscle pain, rashes or other concerning symptoms should consult their doctor.
Karayiannis added that the Ministry of Health has a protocol in place for managing West Nile virus cases.
Source: CNA
