The West Nile virus is spreading across Ukraine and poses a serious threat. This was reported by Igor Kuzin, the Deputy Minister of Health and Chief State Sanitary Doctor of Ukraine, in an interview with BBC Ukraine published on Sunday.
According to the epidemiologist, the disease is endemic to Ukraine, meaning it spreads naturally.
"We are seeing a shift in temperatures across regions of the country. Previously, we mentioned that the West Nile fever could spread in the Kherson and Odesa regions and Crimea, but now much of central Ukraine is becoming favorable for it," the doctor explained.
The natural "reservoir" for the fever consists of migratory birds whose routes pass through Ukraine. The infection is transmitted to humans or animals via mosquitoes.
The Chief Sanitary Doctor cited data from the Public Health Center: since the beginning of July, 88 cases of West Nile fever have been recorded in the country, with 11 patients having died. The majority of cases were diagnosed in Kyiv and the Kyiv region, with one case reported in Poltava and Cherkasy regions.
There are no specific medications or vaccines for the fever. The disease does not spread from person to person, so it can be avoided by preventing mosquito bites. It is advisable to limit outdoor activities without repellents, especially near water bodies, install mosquito nets on windows, and wear closed clothing.
If you experience a fever, worsening health, headaches, rashes, or other symptoms after a mosquito bite, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. The illness typically manifests within 2–3 days.
The Deputy Minister of Health confirmed that the West Nile fever is a significant threat to Ukrainians.
"Of course. It is serious, and it will remain serious. People need to gradually change their behavior towards insects. For many, it seems nonsensical to use repellents when simply going to the park. However, in the context of global climate change, this is a reality and must be done," said Igor Kuzin.
As a reminder, in July, 16 people died in India during an outbreak of the Chandipura virus. The likely carrier of the virus is the female Phlebotomine mosquito. There are also no medications or vaccines for it.
In June, there was a rapid spread of the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus H5N1 observed on all continents. Scientists suggest that global climate change is contributing to the spread of the infection.