Call for a Mosquito Control Unit Following West Nile Virus Cases

Hasan Sarpten, a former president of the Biologists Association, drew attention to the West Nile Virus cases seen in 3 people in the country and called for the establishment of a Mosquito Control Unit within the Ministry of Health.

West Nile Virus Cases Are Increasing

It was announced that the West Nile Virus, which resulted in the death of one person in Southern Cyprus and was seen in a total of 10 people, has also been detected in 3 people in our country.

Experts warn that there may be an increase in the number of cases in the coming days and demand that necessary precautions be taken.

Combating Mosquitoes Remains Inadequate

It is stated that research conducted after the Covid-19 pandemic indicates that the next pandemic could be mosquito-borne.

It is expressed that current practices consist solely of spraying activities carried out only during the summer months and that this situation is inadequate.

Symptoms and Risks of the Disease

The virus, transmitted through Culex pipiens mosquitoes in the Mediterranean basin, generally manifests with symptoms of West Nile Fever.

While the majority of cases show no symptoms, nervous system infections that can be fatal may develop in 1 percent of the cases.

The Role of the Ministry of Health and Municipalities

It is emphasized that the authorized institution regarding the fight against mosquitoes is the Department of Primary Health Care Services and the Ministry of Health.

It is claimed that because the Ministry does not view this duty as its own responsibility, the burden falls on the municipalities and temporary solutions based on complaints are produced.

Mosquito Control Unit Proposal

It is stated that the fight must be sustained uninterruptedly not only during the summer months, but throughout the entire year.

It is requested that the mosquito control units of all municipalities be merged to establish a Mosquito Control Unit under the Ministry of Health.