Deadly West Nile fever spreads in Europe - already 17 deaths

231 cases of West Nile fever in the EU reported

The European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) is currently warning of an unusual number of cases of West Nile fever within the European Union. According to the agency, between November 3 and 9, 2018, 120 cases of illness were reported in EU member states. Already eleven people are victims of many of the dangerous diseases that are transmitted over the bite of the tiger mosquito.

The ECDC informs in a weekly report about the increased risk of illness in other EU countries. Italy has hit it particularly hard. Here 72 cases of West Nile fever were reported. In Greece, 16 people were infected, three people died as a result. Romania also reports 16 cases. There were 13 infections in Hungary and three in France. Outbreaks also occurred in EU neighboring countries. Serbia reported 32 infections and five deaths, and Kosovo reported two cases, with a fatal outcome.

This year, many cases of dangerous West Nile fever have been reported in Europe. So far, there have been 335 reported infections with a total of 17 deaths. (Image: mycteria / fotolia.com)

Especially many cases this year

Overall, the ECDC reports so far 231 cases in EU Member States and 104 cases in EU neighboring countries. There were a total of 17 deaths. This is already the most violent outbreak of recent years.

Tropical diseases are becoming increasingly common in Europe?

For some time now, it was warned that dangerous pathogens are spreading strongly on the Adriatic. Experts also keep reminding that immigrant tiger mosquitoes may be carriers of serious infectious diseases. The Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine recently confirmed that the tropical Chikungunya virus could also spread in Germany, for example.

What is the expression of West Nile fever??

Mosquitoes are mainly carriers of West Nile fever. The infection goes unnoticed and symptom-free in many patients. Only about one in five people have flu-like symptoms such as fever, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, nausea and vomiting. Some sufferers also have swollen lymph nodes. Furthermore, about one third of all patients develop rashes. In rare cases meningitis may occur.

How dangerous is the West Nile fever?

Especially for the elderly, the virus is a danger. It can lead to serious complications that can sometimes be fatal. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that on average, one in every 150 diseases is fatal. In the current cases, however, there were already 17 deaths from 335 reported illnesses. However, since it does not come with every infected person to symptoms, it is likely that a large part of the infections was not reported.

Mosquito repellent is the best prevention

The best prevention of West Nile fever and other diseases transmitted by mosquitoes is not to be stung. Besides the usual mosquito sprays, there are many other ways to expel the annoying pests with natural home remedies. Mosquito nets in front of the windows keep the mosquitoes from entering the house. Long and light clothes also protect against stings. Likewise, odors such as garlic or certain essential oils can drive away the uninvited guests. (Vb)