INSP: 117 cases of West Nile virus infection and 7 deaths

The National Institute of Public Health reported 117 cases of West Nile virus infection in Romania, including 105 confirmed and 12 probable cases, between June 3 and September 30. During the same period, seven infected people died. The victims were elderly and had comorbidities.

The highest number of cases was recorded in Bucharest, 42, followed by Ilfov, with 12 cases, Giurgiu, with 11, and Călărași and Ialomița, with seven each. Cases were also reported in 23 other counties, including Brăila, Galați, Teleorman, Prahova, Constanța, Iași, Cluj and Vaslui.

West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes. Specialists recommend wearing clothing with long sleeves and long trousers, using repellents and insecticides, and installing screens on windows. The public is advised to eliminate stagnant water, drain puddles around homes and remove containers in which water can accumulate.