Urgent: West Nile Virus Alert Issued for Aznalcázar, Seville – Andalusia on High Alert

SEVILLE, SPAIN – November 21, 2023 – Public health officials in Andalusia, Spain, have declared a heightened alert in the municipality of Aznalcázar, Seville, following the detection of West Nile Virus (WNO) in Culex mosquitoes. This breaking news underscores a growing concern across the region, with multiple areas now under intense surveillance and control measures. Archyde.com is providing up-to-the-minute coverage as authorities work to protect the public.

Virus Detected Near Population Center

The Dirección General de Salud Pública y Ordenación Farmacéutica confirmed the presence of the virus in mosquitoes collected from a trap located less than 1.5 kilometers from the center of Aznalcázar. A separate trap in the neighboring municipality of Villamanrique de la Condesa also tested positive, though the location was further from residential areas, placing that area on high-risk status. This isn’t an isolated incident; several other towns in Seville, Córdoba, and Cádiz are already under alert or heightened surveillance, demonstrating a wider regional challenge.

What Does an “Area in Alert” Mean?

Under Andalusia’s comprehensive West Nile Virus surveillance and control program, declaring an “area in alert” triggers a multi-pronged response. For Aznalcázar, this means an immediate intensification of entomological (mosquito), animal (bird and equine), and human health surveillance. Public health campaigns will be launched in schools and care facilities, and communication will be boosted through pharmacies and healthcare providers to ensure residents understand and implement preventative measures. Local authorities are also mandated to ramp up mosquito control and treatment efforts within a 1.5-kilometer radius of identified breeding grounds.

Expanding Regional Concerns: A Look at Affected Areas

Aznalcázar joins a growing list of municipalities facing increased WNO risk. Currently, alerts are in effect for La Línea de la Concepción (Cádiz), Guadalcázar (Córdoba), and several other towns in Seville, including Las Cabezas de San Juan, Morón de la Frontera, La Rinconada, Almensilla, San Juan de Aznalfarache, Mairena del Aljarafe, Gelves, Burguillos, and Torrepalma de Carmona. The situation highlights the importance of proactive vector control across the entire region.

Good News: Initial Human Testing Negative

Despite the increased mosquito activity and virus detection, initial results are encouraging. Laboratory tests on 393 individuals actively screened for potential WNO infection have all come back negative. However, three confirmed cases have been reported this season – in Mojácar (Almería), Morón de la Frontera, and La Rinconada (Seville) – along with a probable case in a minor in Andújar (Jaén). This underscores the continued need for vigilance.

Mosquito Abundance: Where are the Hotspots?

Data from over 200 mosquito traps across Andalusia reveals areas of particular concern. Currently, high mosquito abundance is reported in Estepona (Málaga) and Isla Mayor (Sevilla). Elevated levels have been detected in Villamanrique de la Condesa and La Puebla del Río (Sevilla), while moderate levels are present in municipalities across Cádiz, Granada, Málaga, and Seville. This detailed entomological surveillance is crucial for targeted control efforts.

Protect Yourself: Essential Preventative Measures

Health officials are urging residents – and visitors – to take proactive steps to minimize their risk of WNO infection. These include consistently using registered mosquito repellents, avoiding strong perfumes and scented products, installing mosquito nets on windows and doors, and eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed. Pay close attention to swimming pools and other water features, ensuring they are properly maintained or covered. For livestock owners, frequent renewal of animal drinking water and addressing water accumulation on properties are vital.

Andalusia’s Long-Term Strategy: Updated Vector Control Program

Recognizing the evolving threat, the Andalusian health authorities updated their comprehensive West Nile Virus Vector Control Program earlier this year. The program now categorizes all municipalities into one of three risk levels – low, medium, or high – simplifying communication and ensuring targeted prevention strategies. The program emphasizes a collaborative approach, with the regional government responsible for risk assessment and communication, while municipalities handle local mosquito control and treatment. Inspectors are actively working with local authorities to ensure effective implementation of these measures.

The situation in Andalusia serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing public health challenges posed by vector-borne diseases. Staying informed, taking preventative measures, and supporting local control efforts are essential to protecting communities and mitigating the impact of West Nile Virus. Archyde.com will continue to provide updates as this situation develops, offering reliable information and insights to help you stay safe and informed. For the latest breaking news and in-depth analysis, visit archyde.com regularly.