Cagliari, 28 August (LaPresse) – The number of human cases of West Nile virus infection in the province of Oristano has risen to twenty-five. The latest case involves a man in his eighties, who has been admitted to San Martino Hospital in Oristano. There has also been a second death: a man in his seventies, who was initially admitted to the hospital in Oristano and later transferred to Brotzu Hospital in Cagliari. Ten people remain hospitalised at San Martino across various wards. The Prevention Department of Oristano’s Local Health Authority 5 immediately launched an epidemiological investigation and preventive measures, which involve the competent authorities carrying out pest control in the residential area of the person who contracted the virus. The head of the Prevention Department, Maria Valentina Marras, reiterated: “We remind all citizens, particularly the vulnerable and the elderly, to steer clear of any high-risk situations and to protect themselves from bites by this insect using all the methods we are already familiar with: avoid standing water, use insect repellent sprays and wear long clothing when outdoors, and fit mosquito nets in their homes.” “The number of infections is still rising and, sadly, a second death has also been reported. We must continue to follow the only measures available to prevent and protect against the disease. It is essential that those caring for the elderly and children ensure that both groups follow the same protective measures,” added the Director-General of Local Health Authority 5, Grazia Cattina.
West Nile virus: second fatality in Sardinia; cases rise to 25
Cagliari, 28 August (LaPresse) – The number of human cases of West Nile virus infection in the province of Oristano has risen to twenty-five. The latest case involves a man in his eighties, who has been admitted to San Martino Hospital in Oristano. There has also been a second death: a man in his seventies, who was initially admitted to the hospital in Oristano and later transferred to Brotzu Hospital in Cagliari. Ten people remain hospitalised at San Martino across various wards. The Prevention Department of Oristano’s Local Health Authority 5 immediately launched an epidemiological investigation and preventive measures, which involve the competent authorities carrying out pest control in the residential area of the person who contracted the virus. The head of the Prevention Department, Maria Valentina Marras, reiterated: “We remind all citizens, particularly the vulnerable and the elderly, to steer clear of any high-risk situations and to protect themselves from bites by this insect using all the methods we are already familiar with: avoid standing water, use insect repellent sprays and wear long clothing when outdoors, and fit mosquito nets in their homes.” “The number of infections is still rising and, sadly, a second death has also been reported. We must continue to follow the only measures available to prevent and protect against the disease. It is essential that those caring for the elderly and children ensure that both groups follow the same protective measures,” added the Director-General of Local Health Authority 5, Grazia Cattina.