Sevilla reports rise in West Nile virus cases to 29

The number of West Nile virus cases in Andalucía has risen to 29, with all infections concentrated in the province of Sevilla. Recent reports indicate three new positive cases in Sevilla capital, La Puebla del Río, and Los Palacios y Villafranca.

Of the 29 recorded cases, 20 have presented mild symptoms, while nine have progressed to neuroinvasive forms of the disease. One death has been reported, and while one patient has recovered without sequelae, others are showing favorable progress. The municipality of Villamanrique de la Condesa has been identified as the most affected area with six cases.

In response to the outbreak, approximately 20 municipalities in Andalucía have been placed on alert. These areas must intensify entomological, animal, and human surveillance, as well as reinforce mosquito control measures. Authorities attribute the increase in mosquito density to winter rains and high spring temperatures, which have filled rice fields and caused exceptional flooding in the Doñana National Park marshes.

Health officials are urging citizens to adopt personal protection measures, such as using repellents, wearing light-colored clothing, and eliminating standing water to prevent mosquito breeding.