Toulouse, France – Health officials in France’s Haute-Garonne department have confirmed the first human case of West Nile virus infection within the region. The Regional Health Agency of Occitanie announced the diagnosis wednesday, September 24, identifying the case in a town north of Toulouse. The infected individual has been hospitalized.
This marks the fourth confirmed human case of West Nile virus in the Occitanie region this season, following three cases identified in Hérault during the summer in Florensac, Agde, and Pomerols. A new case has also been detected in a horse in Frouzins.
West Nile virus, active between May and November, is primarily transmitted by Culex-type mosquitoes. While birds – including domestic fowl like ducks and pigeons, and also migratory species – serve as the primary carriers, the virus is spread to humans and horses through mosquito bites. According to the Pasteur Institute, humans and horses are considered “accidental hosts” in the transmission cycle.
Most West Nile virus infections are asymptomatic. However,symptoms can include a flu-like illness and,less commonly,a rash. In rare instances-less than 1% of cases-the virus can cause neurological complications. The infection can be fatal, notably in elderly individuals.
Currently, there is no vaccine or specific treatment available for West Nile virus.
