Four confirmed cases of West Nile virus have been recorded in Cyprus so far this year, Deputy Director-General of the Ministry of Health Elisabeth Constantinou told the Cyprus News Agency (CNA) on Tuesday, describing the situation as under control.
Two additional cases are considered probable and are under investigation. Further laboratory testing is required to determine whether they meet the epidemiological definition of a West Nile virus infection.
Constantinou said the four confirmed cases were recorded during the summer. She noted that the disease is mainly asymptomatic, with around 80% or more of infections producing no symptoms.
Authorities say situation is under control
Constantinou said the situation remains under control, noting that a large number of cases would be expected to result in more patients requiring hospitalisation.
“I consider the situation to be under control, because if we had large numbers of cases, we would also have many cases in hospital. It would not be just four; there would be many more,” she said.
She stressed that prevention measures should begin at an individual level, urging people to protect themselves against mosquito bites.
Advice to prevent mosquito bites
People visiting areas where water is present are advised to wear long sleeves and trousers and use insect repellent.
Constantinou also urged residents to eliminate potential mosquito breeding sites around their homes by avoiding stagnant water in buckets, flower pots and old car tyres.
Air conditioning and fans can also help keep mosquitoes away, while residents were advised to use insecticide sprays where appropriate.
Vulnerable groups face a greater risk than the general healthy population, she said, stressing the need for additional protection for older people and other vulnerable individuals.
Virus is not transmitted between people
Constantinou clarified that West Nile virus is not transmitted directly from person to person but through the bite of an infected mosquito.
Given the limited number of cases recorded in Cyprus, she said the likelihood of infected mosquitoes being present is low.
The disease can be detected through a blood test.
Asked whether the cases were linked mainly to travel, Constantinou confirmed that they were imported cases.
Health authorities remain on alert
The Ministry of Health is also taking wider preventive measures, Constantinou said, noting that the issue has been under attention for some time.
Teams of health workers are spraying areas where mosquito breeding sites have been identified and taking targeted measures.
The ministry has also sent updated information to doctors, reminding them of the symptoms and laboratory tests associated with the disease. Doctors have been urged to consider West Nile virus in differential diagnoses and send samples for laboratory testing when appropriate.
Blood collection teams have also been informed and are conducting specific tests on blood samples they collect.
“The Ministry of Health is activated, has taken action and is taking all the appropriate measures for this disease,” Constantinou said, adding that “there is no reason for concern. We are monitoring developments and remain vigilant.”
Also read: West Nile virus in Cyprus: Is there cause for concern?
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