The task force of the ASL Napoli 2 Nord (Local Health Authority) is fully operational, monitoring and combating the spread of West Nile virus. This multidisciplinary team, bringing together doctors, veterinarians, local government staff, and environmental services, has intensified surveillance activities across the region in recent weeks.
Since the beginning of the summer season, 15 cases have been recorded in the health authority's area of responsibility. None of them are minors. This figure is down from last year, when there were 47 total cases. The average age of those who tested positive is 68.
Symptoms in most cases are mild.
According to data presented during the task force's operational meeting, the virus does not cause severe illness in most people who contract the infection. A portion of patients develop flu-like symptoms, which are generally mild and resolve spontaneously within a short time, without requiring hospitalization.
A much smaller percentage may develop severe neurological complications, including encephalitis, meningitis, and flaccid paralysis. The most severe forms mainly affect the elderly, immunocompromised individuals, and those with chronic conditions.
Epidemiological survey and mosquito monitoring
"It's essential that every member of the network knows exactly what to do if the virus is detected," explained Monica Vanni, general director of the ASL Napoli 2 Nord.
Once laboratory tests confirm the infection, the Prevention Department immediately activates the local network. This begins with an epidemiological investigation, the placement of mosquito traps, the mapping of potential exposure sites, and the initiation, together with the municipalities, of the necessary disinfestation operations.
Local administrations play a central role, both in informing the population about the correct behaviors to adopt and initiating the required procedures once a case is identified.
Prevention starts at home
Among the main measures recommended by the Local Health Authority (ASL) to reduce the risk of bites are the use of light-colored clothing that covers most of the body, the use of skin repellents, and the installation of mosquito nets.
In enclosed spaces, the use of diffusers or insecticides is also recommended. Particular attention should be paid to stagnant water, a breeding ground for mosquitoes: avoid stagnant water and periodically treat private drains with larvicides.
"We need widespread and strategic actions."
The ASL also focuses its attention on seemingly less visible areas where conditions favorable to the proliferation of insects may be concentrated.
"The great challenge is to identify the pockets of damp that often hide in uncultivated land and then proceed to remediate these areas," emphasized Pasquale Di Girolamo Faraone, health director of the Naples 2 North Local Health Authority. "Widespread and strategic actions are needed."
The task force will therefore continue its surveillance and coordination activities across the country, with the aim of promptly identifying any new cases and addressing environmental factors that may be contributing to the spread of the virus.
Preventive measures against West Nile virus
Here are some practical tips to reduce the risk of contracting West Nile virus.
- Clothing: Wear light-colored, covering clothing to protect your skin from bites.
- Repellents: Use skin repellents to keep mosquitoes away.
- Mosquito nets: Install mosquito nets on windows and doors to prevent insects from entering.
- Standing water: Avoid stagnant water and treat private drains with larvicides.
- Disinfestation: Collaborate with local administrations for pest control operations.
