West Nile virus alert in Belgium: First suspected domestic transmission.
In Belgium, five possible cases were identified as the first suspected domestic transmission of the West Nile virus. Neurological symptoms were observed in four of the cases in Antwerp and Flemish Brabant, and one person was hospitalized.
Cases in which the West Nile virus is considered to have first infected within the country were identified in Belgium. According to information relayed by the official news agency Belga, five possible cases were identified in the provinces of Antwerp and Flemish Brabant in the Flemish Region. Confirmation tests are ongoing to verify the cases.
Neurological symptoms observed in 4 people
Neurological symptoms appeared in four of the five identified possible cases. One of those individuals was taken to hospital for treatment.
Health officials said the West Nile virus is circulating among birds and mosquitoes in the region. Officials noted that if the cases are confirmed, they would be the first infections occurring within Belgium.
Teams Passed the Alarm
Belgium Health Ministry spokesperson Anneleen De Sadeleer said that new cases could appear until October, when the mosquito season is expected to end.
While the shortening of days and the drop in temperatures are expected to reduce the risk of virus transmission, officials emphasized that the overall risk of infection and disease in the population remains low.
How Does West Nile Virus Spread?
West Nile virus is mainly transmitted to humans by bites of Culex mosquitoes. Because there is no widely available vaccine against the virus, experts recommend protecting against mosquito bites.
The incubation period of the virus after a mosquito bite is usually between 2 and 14 days, and it can extend up to 21 days in people with weakened immune systems.
Most Cases Show No Symptoms
About 80% of people infected with West Nile virus show no symptoms. In roughly 20% of patients, symptoms such as fever, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, headache, and muscle aches can appear.
In more severe cases, neurological symptoms can arise, and the risk of serious illness may rise especially among the elderly and those with weakened immune systems.
Initially seen mainly in Africa, the West Nile virus spread to various parts of Europe over time. Cases caused by the virus have been reported in many European countries, including France, Italy, Spain, and Portugal.
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