The Bacau Public Health Authority has released important information regarding the confirmation of a case of West Nile virus infection in Bacau County. The patient is a 55-year-old woman who has been placed in isolation in the infectious diseases department of the Bacău adult district hospital since August 16, 2023. Her state of health is stable and stable.
After the case was confirmed, DSP Bacau took immediate action to control the spread of the virus in the local community. These measures include:
- Dissemination of information to family medicine offices, as well as to emergency departments / emergency departments, about the need to refer patients with prolonged febrile syndrome or symptoms comparable to meningitis / meningoencephalitis / encephalitis to infectious diseases departments.
- Providing information to family medicine practitioners on the importance of educating the public about necessary self-protection measures, such as installing window screens, using mosquito repellents, and removing standing water and debris from yards and basements.
- Notification of the local authorities of the Bacau district on the resumption of pest control measures aimed at combating mosquitoes.
- Inform the Bacau Blood Transfusion Center of the need to monitor and take appropriate measures regarding blood donation.
It is important to note that West Nile virus is transmitted by mosquito bites, with the infection initially occurring in birds that serve as intermediate hosts. Human infection cannot be transmitted through direct contact between people.
Symptoms of West Nile virus infection can range from none to severe. In about 20% of cases, mild symptoms are observed, such as fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, sometimes nausea and vomiting. A smaller percentage, about 1 in 150 infected people, develop severe symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, confusion, tremors, and seizures. People with weakened immune systems, children and the elderly are more likely to develop severe forms of the disease.
To prevent mosquito bites and the spread of infection, the public is advised to take protective measures such as wearing long sleeves and long trousers, using mosquito repellants, applying insecticides around the home, installing window screens, removing stagnant water. close to home and proper handling of household waste.