A new case of West Nile virus has been reported in the province of Oristano. An 85-year-old man was admitted to San Martino Hospital, where he arrived a few days ago with a high fever and symptoms consistent with West Nile virus. The clinical suspicion was confirmed by laboratory tests.
The Prevention Department of the Local Health Authority (ASL 5) of Oristano immediately began an epidemiological investigation and preventive measures, which include disinfecting the area where the person who contracted the virus lives.
With today's announcement, the number of confirmed cases of West Nile fever in the province of Oristano in 2026 has risen to four: the first dated back to last May and involved a person over sixty; the second, a person over ninety who, after contracting the virus and developing the disease, sadly died. The third, a person over sixty, is currently under observation at the San Martino Hospital.
"This disease has unfortunately become accustomed to a rapid escalation in cases," explains Maria Valentina Marras, director of the Prevention Department. "For this reason, we once again urge citizens, especially the frail and elderly, to prevent potential risky situations and protect themselves from mosquito bites using all the tools we recommend: avoid standing water, protect yourself with insect repellent sprays and long clothing when outdoors, and secure your home with mosquito nets."
«We remind you that prevention and protection measures against this disease are extremely important, in the absence of a vaccine or specific therapy, and must become part of our daily habits – observes the general director of the ASL 5 Grazia Cattina – Therefore we invite everyone, as far as possible, to adopt all the precautions and protection systems against mosquitoes, the insect that carries the disease».
(Unioneonline/AD)
