West Nile virus deaths reach 12 in Netherlands as infections rise to 77
The number of deaths linked to West Nile virus in the Netherlands has risen to 12 this year, while confirmed human infections have reached 77, according to the Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM).
In its latest update on Thursday, the institute reported one additional confirmed infection since October 29. All 12 deaths involved patients who had been hospitalised with symptoms of the mosquito-borne disease.
South Holland accounts for the largest share of reported infections, with 45 cases. Utrecht has recorded 14, while North Holland and North Brabant have reported seven each. Gelderland and Overijssel have registered two cases apiece.
Infections detected in animals and mosquitoes
Authorities also reported further positive tests among animals, with four additional horses and five birds testing positive over the past week.
The total number of infected horses has reached 175, while 281 birds have tested positive for the virus.
Positive mosquito pools remain at 26, with detections reported across Gelderland, Utrecht, North Brabant, Limburg and South Holland.
The findings indicate that the virus is circulating among mosquitoes and animals in several parts of the country, raising concerns about continued exposure to humans.
Most infections cause no symptoms
West Nile virus is primarily transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes, particularly those belonging to the Culex genus.
According to health authorities, approximately 80% of infected people develop no symptoms. Around 20% experience illness, which can include fever, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, headaches and muscle pain.
The incubation period generally ranges from two to 14 days, although it can extend to 21 days in people with weakened immune systems.
There is currently no approved human vaccine, and health authorities recommend measures to prevent mosquito bites.
Netherlands recorded no cases last year
The Netherlands reported no confirmed human West Nile virus cases last year, although previous research indicates that infections may have been more widespread than official figures suggested.
Between 2020 and 2023, an estimated 9,500 people were infected in the country, with most cases going undetected because the majority of infected individuals show no symptoms.
The Netherlands first detected the virus in 2020, with subsequent infections identified among mosquitoes, wild birds, horses and humans.
Originally identified in Africa, West Nile virus has spread to several European countries, including France, Italy, Spain and Portugal.
The latest figures underline the importance of continued surveillance and mosquito-control measures as health authorities monitor the spread of the virus across the Netherlands.
Source:turkiyetoday
