17 Sep 2024 | 10:28 AM UTC
Spain: Elevated West Nile virus activity reported in multiple areas, especially Seville, in September
Elevated West Nile virus activity reported in multiple areas in Spain in September. Seville is most affected. Avoid mosquito bites.
Health officials have reported elevated West Nile virus activity in multiple areas in Spain, with 71 confirmed cases reported Jan. 1-Sept. 5. This is higher compared to the 19 cases reported in 2023. Seville (58 cases) is the most affected, followed by Badajoz (6 cases) and Huelva (1 case). Health officials recommend the public take personal protective measures to prevent infection, including using mosquito repellent, wearing clothing that covers most of the body, and sleeping in screened or air-conditioned rooms. This report represents the most up-to-date information available as of Sept. 17.
Avoid mosquito bites and remove standing water to reduce the number of biting mosquitoes. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop within two weeks of being in affected areas.
West Nile virus season in Europe and Spain typically runs May-October. The risk in the European region is highest August-September. Health officials reported 19 cases in Spain in 2023, five cases in 2022, six cases in 2021, and 77 cases in 2020.
West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most infected people develop no symptoms. However, approximately 20 percent of infected people develop febrile illness characterized by symptoms of fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash. Fewer than 1 percent of infected individuals develop serious neurologic illness, which can be life-threatening. Symptoms typically appear 2-6 days after being bitten but can develop up to 14 days after exposure.
