Newsroom
Four cases of West Nile virus have been confirmed in Cyprus since the beginning of the summer, while two additional suspected cases are undergoing further laboratory testing, health authorities said on Tuesday.
The Deputy Director General of the Ministry of Health, Elisavet Constantinou, told the Cyprus News Agency that the current situation remains under control.
The two suspected cases have not yet been officially confirmed, as further testing is required to establish whether they meet the epidemiological and laboratory criteria for West Nile virus infection.
West Nile virus infections often cause no symptoms. Constantinou said that approximately 80% or more of those infected may remain asymptomatic. Serious illness is therefore relatively uncommon, although certain groups, particularly elderly and vulnerable people, face a greater risk of complications.
According to Constantinou, the limited number of confirmed cases is an indication that Cyprus is not currently experiencing significant local transmission.
“If we had large numbers of cases, we would also have many more people requiring hospital treatment,” she said.
The confirmed infections are believed to be imported cases and are primarily associated with travel. Constantinou said that the relatively low number of cases in Cyprus also reduces the likelihood of local mosquitoes carrying the virus.
West Nile virus is transmitted primarily through the bite of infected mosquitoes and does not spread directly from person to person. The infection can be detected through blood tests.
Health authorities have urged the public to take precautions against mosquito bites, particularly when visiting areas where mosquitoes are common. Recommended measures include wearing long-sleeved clothing and long trousers, using insect repellent and preventing the accumulation of stagnant water around homes.
Residents are also advised to remove standing water from containers, buckets, flower pots and discarded tyres, as these can provide breeding grounds for mosquitoes. The use of fans and air conditioning may also help reduce mosquito activity indoors.
The Ministry of Health has already implemented preventive measures, including spraying in areas where mosquito breeding sites have been identified. Health workers are taking additional steps to control mosquito populations where necessary.
Doctors across Cyprus have also received updated guidance on recognising possible cases and arranging the appropriate laboratory tests. Medical professionals have been reminded to consider West Nile virus when assessing patients with relevant symptoms and to submit samples for testing where appropriate.
Blood collection teams have likewise been informed and are carrying out specialised screening procedures on blood samples.
Constantinou said the Ministry of Health remains alert and is continuing to take the necessary measures, while stressing that there is currently no reason for public alarm.
