West Nile fever Cases Rise in Extremadura, Spain
Extremadura, spain – Health officials in the Extremadura region of Spain have confirmed a recent increase in West Nile fever cases, bringing the total for 2025 to eleven.As of Friday, five individuals are currently hospitalized at the Don Benito-Villanueva Hospital due to the virus.
The extremadura Health Service (SES) reported three new confirmed cases on Friday: a 66-year-old woman and a 77-year-old man,both from the Don Benito health area,and a 55-year-old man from the Navalmoral Health Area of la Mata who is asymptomatic. The latter case was identified through routine surveillance conducted by the Extremadura Blood Bank.
Additionally, an 82-year-old woman from the Don benito-Villanueva health area was confirmed to have the virus earlier Friday and is also receiving hospital care. However, one patient – an 80-year-old woman from the same health area – has been discharged from the hospital after recovering from the illness, having been initially reported on September 5th.
The SES is urging healthcare providers across Extremadura’s eight health areas to maintain a high level of vigilance for potential cases exhibiting compatible symptoms. While approximately 80% of West Nile virus infections in humans are asymptomatic, early detection is crucial for managing the illness in those who do develop symptoms.
To help prevent the spread of the virus, the SES is advising residents to maintain proper upkeep of swimming pools, ponds, and other standing water sources. They also recommend eliminating potential breeding grounds for mosquitoes, such as emptying containers that collect water – including flower pot saucers, jugs, toys, and discarded tires.
