Andalucia is facing a serious outbreak of the West Nile virus, with eight fatalities recorded this year in the province of Seville. The virus, spread by the Culex mosquito, has impacted nearly 100 people, with some suffering severe complications such as meningoencephalitis.
Among the affected are Hugo, a 6-year-old boy, and Ana, a 76-year-old woman. Both are still recovering from the dangerous effects of the infection.
A growing problem in rural areas
The West Nile virus, which has become endemic in Spain, poses a continued threat to the Lower Guadalquivir region. Experts warn that without sustained year-round prevention efforts, outbreaks like this will keep happening. While 80% of infected individuals show no symptoms, the risk remains high for more serious cases. If preventative measures aren’t implemented, the virus could persist and even spread further.
Prevention and control needed
The key to controlling the virus lies in stopping mosquito larvae from maturing into adults. This requires a combination of efforts such as;
- protecting biodiversity
- utilising natural predators that target mosquito larvae
- applying treatments to reduce their numbers
- avoiding stagnant water in large areas is another critical step
Rice fields under scrutiny
The 35,000 hectares of rice fields in the region have come under scrutiny, with some experts pointing to the rice paddies as breeding grounds for mosquitoes. However, local rice farmers argue that the problem lies elsewhere, in areas like riverbanks and irrigation channels where water is often left stagnant. The Doñana Biological Station continues to investigate possible solutions, and more research is being called for to determine the best approach.
Also read: Significant increase of mosquitos that can transmit West Nile Virus
Local authorities call for support
The mayors of towns like Coria del Río and La Puebla del Río are calling for more support from higher authorities. Currently, the Seville Provincial Council is paying for mosquito control measures, but local leaders see the need for a dedicated control organisation, similar to the one in Huelva.
Residents and victims of the virus are demanding long-term solutions, including the development of a vaccine or treatment. Jorge Rodrigo, a researcher from IrisCaixa, is working on a project to create a vaccine, with hopes of completing the first phase in the next five years.