Harmancı: Measures Stepped Up Against West Nile Virus

Harmancı said the municipality was working in coordination with the Ministry of Health and the Department of Primary Health Services, urging residents to eliminate stagnant water and take precautions against mosquito bites.

Acknowledging public concerns, Harmancı stressed that mosquitoes “recognise no borders” and said the issue should be treated not only as a health story but as a public health matter for Nicosia.

He said the municipality was in constant contact with the Ministry of Health and had also spoken with Health Minister Hakan Dinçyürek. Based on information received through the Bi-Communal Health Committee, measures had been stepped up particularly in areas close to the buffer zone, with teams from the Department of Primary Health Services working simultaneously.

Mosquito breeding sites targeted

Harmancı said efforts to identify mosquito breeding sites and control larvae were continuing without interruption. Sewers, stagnant water pools, neglected swimming pools and open water sources were being regularly inspected.

He said spraying and biological control teams were active in the field, stressing that the aim was not indiscriminate spraying but tackling mosquitoes properly at their source.

Residents urged to take precautions

Harmancı said there was no vaccine or specific treatment for West Nile virus, stressing that preventing mosquito bites remained the most effective form of protection.

He urged residents to regularly empty water accumulating in flowerpot trays, buckets, tyres, ornamental pools and similar containers, and to use window screens in homes and workplaces.

He said people experiencing symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, muscle weakness, vomiting or altered consciousness should seek medical attention without delay, particularly elderly people and those with weakened immune systems.

Harmancı also noted that the virus does not spread from person to person. Most people experience no symptoms or only a mild flu-like illness, but the disease can become severe in high-risk groups.

“Not panic, but informed precautions are important,” Harmancı said, stressing that protecting the health of Nicosia and the island was a shared responsibility.

He said municipal teams would continue their fieldwork and coordination, while residents could contribute by eliminating stagnant water around their homes.

Harmancı added that developments would continue to be shared transparently.