Two more people have died in Spain as a deadly virus carried by mosquitoes continues to spread. Five people have now died of West Nile Virus in the Seville area of Spain.
The regional Government for the area, the Junta de Andalucia has now identified another 10 cases of the disease. There are fears the disease could spread across Spain.
The UK Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office warns: “There is a risk of insect or tick-borne diseases in some areas of Southern Europe. This includes diseases such as Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever, leishmaniasis and West Nile virus. All travellers should avoid insect and tick bites day and night.”
“There are no vaccinations (or medications) to prevent these diseases.”
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control has reported 713 cases of West Nile virus, and 67 deaths, across nine European countries.
It has also been found in Greece. West Nile Virus is a mosquito-borne virus that can cause severe neurological disease in humans. Discovered in Uganda in 1937, it has since spread worldwide due to climate change. Most infections are asymptomatic, but severe cases can lead to life-threatening conditions.
Preventive measures, such as controlling mosquito populations and avoiding mosquito bites, are crucial in limiting the spread. It is part of the Flavivirus genus, which also includes other viruses like Zika, dengue, and yellow fever. The virus is spread to humans mainly through the bite of an infected mosquito, particularly the Culex species.
WNV began spreading to Europe in the 1950s. Several outbreaks were recorded in the Mediterranean region. It is now considered endemic in many parts of North America.
Most people infected with WNV (about 80%) do not show any symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, they can vary in severity:
Mild Symptoms (20% of cases):
- Fever
- Headache
- Body aches
- Joint pains
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Rash
Severe Symptoms (less than 1% of cases):
- Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain)
- Meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord)
- High fever
- Neck stiffness
- Stupor or disorientation
- Coma
- Tremors or convulsions
- Paralysis
- Muscle weakness
Severe cases can be fatal, particularly in older adults or those with weakened immune systems.