The AOU San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d'Aragona of Salerno has confirmed the first suspected case of West Nile virus encephalitis in the province of Salerno.
A 59-year-old man, resident in Altavilla Silentina and undergoing chemotherapy, is hospitalized in the University Infectious Diseases Clinic due to a serious inflammation of the brain.
Initial tests, carried out at the same hospital, strongly suggest the presence of West Nile virus.
West Nile virus, transmitted primarily by mosquitoes, is most common in northern Italy. However, due to climate change, it is increasingly spreading to southern regions as well.
Further tests will be carried out at the Istituto Superiore di Sanità to confirm the diagnosis.
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An intensification of disinfestation operations is underway in Altavilla Silentina and surrounding areas to reduce the presence of mosquitoes.
Health authorities are closely monitoring the situation to identify any further cases.
What should you know about West Nile virus?
In most cases, the virus It causes no symptoms or only a mild fever. However, in some people, especially the elderly and those with weakened immune systems, it can cause encephalitis, a serious inflammation of the brain.
The best prevention is to protect yourself from mosquito bites by using repellents, wearing long sleeves and long pants, and installing mosquito nets on your windows.
It is important to note that, although this is a worrying event, most people infected with West Nile virus recover completely.
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