Doctors’ Union: Mosquito Control Key to Fighting West Nile Virus

İnce said West Nile Virus is not a new disease and is transmitted to humans by mosquitoes every year across a wide geographical area, stressing that mosquito control is the key to preventing its spread.

She said birds are the main source of the virus, while mosquitoes of the Culex genus acquire the virus from infected birds and transmit it to humans and other mammals. However, she noted that humans and other mammals cannot transmit the virus to another person.

The disease is mostly asymptomatic, İnce said, adding that people in high-risk groups—including older adults and those with brain tumours, high blood pressure, blood disorders, diabetes, kidney disease or alcoholism—may develop high fever and neurological symptoms. Treatment is supportive.

“State institutions and local authorities must carry out mosquito control measures without interruption and share their programmes with the public transparently,” İnce said. “Individuals should also eliminate stagnant water around their homes and gardens and take personal precautions by using insect repellents, oils such as lemon and eucalyptus, and wearing long clothing.”

Noting that 80% of people infected with the virus experience no symptoms, İnce stressed the need to raise public awareness and for people in high-risk groups to pay particular attention to protective measures.