West Nile fever cases decline in North Macedonia

The number of West Nile fever cases is gradually decreasing due to health authority interventions, local government measures, and declining temperatures. Mosquito spraying in high-risk areas of the capital has been a key factor in slowing the spread of the disease.

Currently, six patients are hospitalized at the Infectious Disease Clinic in Skopje. Two are in serious condition and require mechanical ventilation, while four remain stable. Health officials note that even after treatment, some patients may face long-term effects such as fatigue, weakness, or in severe cases, neurological and cognitive issues.

To date, 57 people in the country have been infected. Eight deaths have been recorded among patients who had underlying health conditions; all those who experienced severe clinical manifestations were over 60 years old. The virus is transmitted by tiger mosquitoes, and authorities expect the onset of autumn to further reduce mosquito activity and new infections.