The Ministry of Health and Consumption of the Government of Andalusia confirmed the death in Navarre of the woman infected with the West Nile virus, who had previous pathologies and who had travelled to the Sevillian municipality of Utrera, bringing the number of deaths for this reason to six.
As the ministry reported in a statement, the General Directorate of Public Health and Pharmaceutical Regulation confirmed the death of the woman, who had visited the city of Utrera and then returned to her place of origin.
Ministry sources, however, denied that the death of another person in Carmona could be attributed to this disease, who died, as they specified, “with” the West Nile virus, but not because of this infection.
The Council stressed the need for the population to maintain preventive measures to avoid mosquito bites during hours of greatest activity of the species that transmit this disease, such as those near dawn and after dusk.
These measures can be both individual – use of approved repellents topical use and light clothing and this covers most of the skin – as well as household use – of mosquito nets or environmental repellents – especially for the vulnerable population with compromised immunity.
These recommendations should include, the ministry added, avoiding the accumulation of peridomestic water (gardens, pots, tools, etc.) so that they are not used for the development of mosquito larvae.
How to avoid being bitten
West Nile virus is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes, so the best way to avoid it is to prevent bites. Here are some tips to reduce the risk of contracting this virus:
1. Use insect repellent
Apply repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin.
Follow product instructions and avoid contact with eyes, mouth and wounds.
2. Protective clothing
Wear long-sleeved clothing and long pants, especially at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
Preferably wear light-coloured clothing, as dark colours attract more mosquitoes.
3. Protect the house
Use mosquito nets on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out.
If you sleep outdoors or in areas with high mosquito traffic, use a mosquito net.
4. Eliminate mosquito breeding areas
Empty or cover containers that collect water, such as buckets, flower pots or old tires, as mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water.
Change the water in fountains, bird baths and pet baths frequently.
5. Avoid busiest times
Limit outdoor exposure during peak mosquito activity times, which are typically dawn and dusk.
6. Use fans
Mosquitoes are low flyers, so using fans outdoors can make it harder for them to bite.
By taking these measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of being bitten and the possibility of infection with West Nile virus.
