North Macedonia: Opposition criticizes government response to virus and water poisoning

SDSM Member of Parliament Sanja Lukarevska has criticized the government for its handling of the West Nile virus outbreak and a significant water poisoning incident in Gostivar. Lukarevska noted that while there were only five recorded deaths from West Nile virus between 2011 and 2025, an equal number of deaths have occurred within a very short recent period, signaling a serious alarm.

She accused the authorities of delayed reactions in implementing preventative measures, such as spraying, and criticized the lack of systemic prevention. Lukarevska stated that instead of effective action, officials have offered various explanations ranging from stagnant water in pools and sewers to cemetery ponds.

Regarding the water poisoning in Gostivar, which has reportedly affected 5,000 cases, Lukarevska highlighted a lack of transparent information. She claimed that different institutions, including the Ministry of Health and the Food and Veterinary Agency, are shifting responsibility rather than providing unified reports to the public.