West Nile Virus Detected in Vasto, Italy – Public Health Measures Activated
VASTO, ITALY – November 7, 2024 – Teh municipality of Vasto has issued a public health alert following the detection of the West nile virus genome in a mosquito pool collected at Foce del Sinello, a popular recreational area north of Punta Penna. Local authorities are implementing preventative measures and urging residents to take precautions against infection.
The discovery,confirmed by the Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Abruzzo and Molise on October 30th,was made during routine entomological surveillance. While the majority of West Nile virus infections are asymptomatic (approximately 80%), a small percentage can lead to serious neurological complications including meningitis, encephalitis, and acute flaccid paralysis, particularly in the elderly and those with compromised immune systems.
“The situation is under control and has been managed and monitored in a timely manner as the beginning, also based on the directives and health protocol provided by the ministry and local health authorities,” stated Vasto Mayor Francesco Menna. “All the necessary measures will be applied and for this reason I invite citizens not to be worried, so much so that at this stage we have no problems.”
The municipality is advising residents to protect themselves by using repellents correctly, wearing protective clothing, and installing mosquito nets. They also recommend controlling temperature and humidity and eliminating potential mosquito breeding grounds by emptying or covering containers that collect stagnant water – including vases, saucers, outdoor toys, fountains, gutters, and cisterns.
This is the second confirmed case of West Nile virus in the Vasto area within the past year. on September 12, 2024, a 75-year-old man was hospitalized at San Pio hospital with the virus. Prior to that, in 2023, a 50-year-old woman from San Salvo was hospitalized in Pescara with a confirmed case and later discharged.
The Foce del Sinello area is a popular destination for runners, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts, particularly on weekends, prompting heightened awareness and preventative measures.
