Two deaths and a growing number of infections. Dangerous virus in Belgium

The Flemish Department of Health reported two deaths due to West Nile virus infection. Both people belonged to the group at increased risk of severe disease. Details about the age and circumstances of death have not been released.

According to sanitary services, the virus has been circulating locally in Flanders for several months. So far, 14 cases of infection have been confirmed, but the actual number of patients may be much higher. Most infections are mild or asymptomatic, and only about 1% infected people experience serious health complications.

Mosquitoes under the microscope of sanitary services

West Nile virus is transmitted mainly by infected mosquitoes. Their active season in Flanders usually lasts until the end of October, so the authorities appeal for special caution. It is recommended to use repellents, wear clothing that covers the body and avoid places where mosquitoes can breed.

Elderly people and those with weakened immune systems are particularly at risk of serious complications. If infected, the virus can lead to serious neurological complications, such as encephalitis or meningitis.

What is West Nile virus?

Symptoms of the disease appear 1-6 days after the mosquito bite. Their severity depends on the age of the infected person. In children, it is often a mild fever and malaise, in adolescents there is a high fever, conjunctival redness, headache, muscle pain, while in older people, infection may result in inflammation of the brain and meninges and general exhaustion.

There is no specific therapy for treatment. Treatment is mainly aimed at alleviating symptoms, e.g. reducing fever, relieving pain, etc. There is no vaccine available against this disease.

The main method of prevention is to reduce exposure to mosquito bites.