Dr. Petros Karagiannis, a professor of microbiology, regarding the West Nile virus, noting that there does not appear to be widespread transmission in Cyprus at this time and that citizens should take some simple yet effective precautions.
In statements to CNA, he noted that typically people over the age of 60—most often those with underlying medical conditions— may develop a more severe reaction with serious symptoms such as encephalitis, meningitis, etc., as this virus affects the central nervous system.
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He urged the public—not just the elderly or people with other medical conditions— but everyone to take simple precautions such as wearing long-sleeved clothing and using insect repellent when outdoors and in areas with standing water. He also noted that we should not leave standing water in any containers in our homes, as they become breeding grounds for mosquitoes that transmit the virus. Therefore, he said, we must eliminate these breeding grounds.
Dr. Karagiannis also urged hunters who will be out in hunting areas tomorrow, Sunday, to wear long-sleeved clothing and use insect repellent, noting that mosquitoes bite mainly in the evening and very early in the morning, when hunters will be out.
He noted that no measures are recommended at airports, as the virus is transmitted by birds, particularly corvids. The mosquito contracts the West Nile virus only from wild birds, he noted.
He explained that if we suddenly notice dead birds, it would be best not to approach them. He also said that all open areas with stagnant water are breeding grounds, including reservoirs; however, in those areas, the water is circulated and there are fish. Dr. Karagiannis also noted that spraying must be carried out, primarily in the salt flats that are currently drying out, as well as in riverbeds that have accumulated water due to recent rains.
He also noted that the climate crisis is not helping, given the changes in weather conditions, adding that in the coming years “the crisis will turn everything upside down.”
He also reminded the public that symptoms are generally mild for the general population and urged citizens who develop flu-like symptoms, including severe muscle aches and rashes, among other symptoms, to consult their doctor. Dr. Karagiannis also said that the Ministry of Health has a protocol for handling cases of the virus.
Source: KYPE
