Near East University, which monitors reported West Nile Virus cases in Cyprus in real-time via its Global Epidemic Monitoring Portal, has stated that there is no cause for panic, noting that the vast majority of infections are asymptomatic or mild.
The virus has once again come to the spotlight after three individuals in Northern Cyprus tested positive, following reports of West Nile Virus cases in Southern Cyprus. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Cenk Serhan Özverel from the Near East University Institute of Experimental Health Sciences Research and Prof. Dr. Kaya Süer, an Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology Specialist at Near East University Hospital, emphasized that the vast majority of West Nile Virus infections are asymptomatic or mild, and that the risk of severe illness is very low in young, healthy individuals. Pointing out that the risk increases particularly in older age groups, the experts stated that while taking precautions against mosquitoes is important, the current situation should not cause panic.
The West Nile Virus, which can be transmitted to humans and animals via mosquitoes, has become a topic of discussion again due to new cases reported in Cyprus. Following recent reports of cases in Southern Cyprus, it was publicly announced that three people in Northern Cyprus had also tested positive for the West Nile Virus. According to a statement by the TRNC Ministry of Health, two patients who applied to healthcare facilities with complaints of upper respiratory tract infection, sore throat, fever, and fatigue were hospitalized. Tests revealed that both patients were positive for the West Nile Virus. The Ministry reported that the patients’ health conditions had improved compared to the previous day and that they were not in life-threatening condition. The third positive case was detected during routine blood tests in an individual who had no symptoms. The Ministry announced that the health status of the individuals who tested positive is being closely monitored.
Global Epidemic Monitoring Portal on the Watch!
Developed by the Near East University Experimental Health Sciences Research Institute, the Global Epidemic Monitoring Portal tracks real-time data from various regions of the world regarding 25 different infectious agents, including the West Nile Virus.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Cenk Serhan Özverel, Director of the Near East University Experimental Health Sciences Research Institute, stated that changes in case numbers, geographical spread, and epidemiological trends are analyzed via the portal, adding, “We are closely monitoring the recent cases reported in both the north and south of Cyprus. Current data indicate a need to monitor West Nile Virus activity across the island and to strengthen surveillance efforts.”
Emphasizing that one of the portal’s primary objectives is to identify potential risks at an early stage, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Özverel said, “The goal of early warning is not to incite fear in the community, but to ensure that the right measures are taken at the right time. We contribute to shaping public health measures in light of scientific evidence by sharing the up-to-date data we obtain with decision-makers.”
Prof. Dr. Kaya Süer, an Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology Specialist at Near East University Hospital, also commented on the clinical course of the West Nile Virus, emphasizing that the public should evaluate current developments calmly.
Noting that a significant proportion of cases do not progress to a severe clinical condition, Prof. Dr. Kaya Süer stated, “Approximately 80 percent of cases go through the infection without showing any symptoms. The majority of symptomatic cases present with complaints resembling upper respiratory tract infections, such as fever and fatigue. The risk of severe illness is quite low in young, healthy individuals.”
Pointing out that the risk increases particularly in the elderly population, Prof. Dr. Süer said, “There is a risk, albeit low, among the elderly. Particular caution is required regarding neurological involvement, especially in individuals over the age of 65. There is a risk of neurological involvement in approximately 1 percent of cases. Close monitoring is crucial, as the infection can progress to more serious clinical conditions such as meningitis or encephalitis in these patients.”
Emphasizing that it is important to understand that West Nile Virus is not transmitted from person to person through casual contact, Prof. Dr. Kaya Süer said, “This disease is not an infection that spreads from person to person like the flu. The primary route of transmission is the bite of infected mosquitoes. Therefore, it is important for the public to be cautious and for the elderly, in particular, to protect themselves against mosquitoes. While caution is advisable, there is no need for panic.”
Migratory Birds and Mosquitoes Are Part of the Natural Cycle
Stating that the primary life cycle of the West Nile Virus in nature occurs between birds and mosquitoes, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Cenk Serhan Özverel said, “Mosquitoes of the Culex genus, in particular, can acquire the virus while feeding on the blood of infected birds and subsequently transmit the infection when they bite humans or horses.”
Noting that migratory birds play a significant role in the spread of the virus to different regions, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Özverel added, “Given that Cyprus is situated on a major bird migration route between Africa and Europe, it is crucial to regularly monitor the island for the West Nile Virus and similar vector-borne infections.”
However, the mere presence of birds and mosquitoes in the natural environment does not in itself pose an extraordinary risk to the public. What matters is the regular monitoring of mosquito populations, the control of breeding sites, and the simultaneous surveillance of human and animal cases.
Protection Against Mosquito Bites Is Possible with Simple Measures
Preventing mosquito bites forms the basis of protection against the West Nile Virus. To this end, it is important to regularly empty containers that might collect water in homes and gardens, keep unused water containers covered, and minimize areas of stagnant water where mosquitoes can breed.
Using window and door screens, wearing clothing that minimizes exposed skin during periods of high mosquito activity, and using appropriate mosquito repellents also aid in individual protection. While these measures are important for the general public, it is particularly vital for individuals aged 65 and older—who face a higher risk of severe illness—to apply these protective measures with greater diligence.