Another municipality in the province of Málaga with risk level 4 for West Nile virus

by Lorraine Williamson
level 4 West Nile virus

The health authorities have increased the risk of West Nile virus in the municipality of Pizarra – 30 kilometres away from the city of Málaga – to level 4. In Campanillas, Alhaurin de la Torre and the city of Málaga, level 4 is maintained. In Cártama, Benahavís and Coín, the risk remains at level 3. 

West Nile virus, which is transmitted by a bite from infected mosquitoes, can cause serious complications, such as meningitis, inflammation of the brain. Moreover, in vulnerable people, it can even lead to death. The death of a horse in Cártama, which tested positive for the virus, has reaffirmed the need for action. Not only in municipalities with level 4, but also in places where the virus has been found less often. Horses, like humans, can be considered accidental hosts. They can become infected, but not transmit the virus. The dead horse has reaffirmed the need for extreme preventative measures, not just in level 4 congregations. 

This means risk level 4 

Level 4 means that more than 10% of the mosquitoes caught in these areas are carriers of the virus. To prevent the spread of the disease to humans, urgent measures have been taken. At level 4, there is a high chance of transmission to humans. Therefore, the authorities are urging the public not only to take control measures but also to be alert for symptoms of the disease. This can be fever, severe headache, fatigue or muscle pain. In severe cases, the disease can lead to neurological symptoms. The advice is to seek medical help immediately. 

Measures against the spread of West Nile virus 

The measures taken include intensive spraying in the most affected areas, the application of larvae pesticides in stagnant water – one of the main breeding grounds for mosquitoes – and the installation of additional traps to monitor mosquito activity. 

Awareness campaigns should also raise awareness among the population and encourage them to use insect repellents and wear skin-covering clothing. In addition, it is advised to avoid outdoor activities at times of peak activity for mosquitoes. For example, at sunrise and sunset. 

Cogesa Expats

Municipalities at risk level 3 

In addition to the municipalities at risk level 4, other places such as Cártama, Benahavís and Coín keep level 3, with 5% to 10% infected mosquitoes. Although the risk is moderate, the authorities have strengthened surveillance and control measures in these areas. To prevent the situation from deteriorating, more treatments against larvae are carried out and the insects are monitored more. 

In these level 3 municipalities, the authorities are asking citizens to take precautions. And to avoid areas with a lot of mosquitoes. 

Authorities remain alert 

However, the authorities continue to closely monitor the development of the virus and have warned that further restrictions may be imposed if the situation calls for it, especially if human cases are detected or if the presence of the virus increases in more municipalities. 

The authorities have assured that all necessary actions will be maintained to prevent a major outbreak of the virus in the province of Málaga. 

Also read: Eight dead in western Andalucia due to the West Nile virus

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