West Nile virus risk low in Moldova, but experts urge precautions
The National Agency for Public Health (ANSP) in Moldova has confirmed that no cases of West Nile virus infection have been recorded in the country this year. This comes after several cases of the disease and three deaths have been reported in neighboring Romania.
The symptoms of West Nile virus infection are similar to those of the flu and can include fever, headache, muscle pain, nausea, and conjunctivitis. In some cases, the disease can develop into more serious forms, resulting in death. The most affected are children and the elderly.
"The last case recorded by ANSP in Moldova was in 2019. Since then and so far no cases have been recorded," said Ludmila Lungu, head of epidemiological surveillance at the ANSP. "To protect ourselves, of course, it is recommended to avoid exposure to mosquitoes, namely wearing long-sleeved clothing, using chemical mosquito repellents, and insecticidal substances in or around the home."
The West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne illness that is common in Africa, Asia, and North America. It is spread when an infected mosquito bites a human. There is no specific treatment for West Nile virus, but most people recover without any complications.
Experts at the ANSP say that the risk of West Nile virus infection in Moldova is low, but they urge people to take precautions to protect themselves.
