West Nile in Romania: 46 cases reported, two elderly people have died

The National Institute of Public Health (INSP) has reported 46 cases of West Nile virus infection between 3 June and 25 August, according to the latest report from the National Centre for Surveillance and Control of Communicable Diseases (CNSCBT). Of these, 38 were confirmed through laboratory testing, whilst 8 are considered probable.

Two deaths among elderly individuals

During the same period, 2 deaths were recorded, both involving elderly individuals who also had underlying medical conditions (comorbidities).

The distribution of cases by age group shows that the infection has affected people of all ages, though with a significant proportion among those aged over 50:

• 15–19 years: 1 case
• 20–29 years: 3 cases
• 30–39 years: 2 cases
• 40–49 years: 6 cases
• 50–59 years: 10 cases
• 60–69 years: 10 cases
• 70–79 years: 8 cases
• 80 years and over: 6 cases

As such, people aged 50 and over account for the majority of reported cases. Of all patients, 24 are women, and 32 are from urban areas.

Bucharest the worst affected

The highest number of infections was recorded in Bucharest, with 20 cases. Further cases were reported in the following counties: Călărași (4), Giurgiu (4), Ilfov (4), Ialomița (2), Suceava (2), and 1 case each in Argeș, Bihor, Botoșani, Cluj, Galați, Harghita (an individual exposed in another country but registered in their county of residence), Iași, Mureș, Satu Mare, and Vaslui.

Preventive measures recommended by specialists

To reduce the risk of infection, specialists recommend:

• wearing long-sleeved clothing and long trousers;
• using mosquito repellent products;
• applying insecticides inside and around the home;
• fitting protective screens on windows to prevent mosquitoes from entering the house;
• draining pools of standing water in the garden or around the property;
• removing containers with stagnant water and disposing of household waste properly.

These measures are particularly important for elderly individuals and those with other health conditions, as INSP data shows they are at greater risk of developing severe forms of the disease.