Health services in Skopje have been put on high alert as the country grapples with a particularly aggressive outbreak of the West Nile virus . The ongoing spread of the dangerous virus has already claimed the lives of four people , while the total number of confirmed cases has reached 35. The greatest burden of the public health crisis is being recorded in the wider Skopje region , which is also the epicenter of epidemiological activity.
The speed with which the wave of transmission has escalated is causing great concern among scientists. While only eight cases had been recorded by the end of July, their number has multiplied within a few weeks, bringing the country to one of the most serious outbreaks since 2011 , the year in which the virus was first detected on its territory.
Of particular concern is the severity of symptoms in patients, most of whom are over 60 years old . In several cases, the virus caused the severe neuroinvasive form of the disease , manifesting complications such as encephalitis and meningitis . Several patients are under close monitoring at the University Clinic of Infectious Diseases in Skopje , while some of them had to be admitted to intensive care units .
In response to the rapid spread, the competent authorities proceeded to declare a state of epidemic in many municipalities of Skopje . This development is accompanied by an escalation of epidemiological surveillance and an intensification of targeted spraying to combat mosquitoes in public spaces and green areas.
In addition to the measures taken by the authorities, citizens are strongly advised to take personal protective measures . Regular use of approved insect repellents is recommended, as is avoiding being outdoors during the evening peak hours of insect activity, as well as the immediate removal of standing water from yards, flower pots and balconies to eliminate breeding sites.
