Romania has reported a total of 49 West Nile virus infections, including three fatalities, between June 2 and October 30, the country’s National Institute of Public Health (INSP) announced on Monday.

According to the INSP, 41 cases were confirmed, while eight others were classified as probable. The majority of infections were registered in the capital Bucharest (16 cases), followed by the eastern counties of Galati (6 cases), Braila (5 cases), and Ilfov (4 cases). Additional cases were recorded in 14 other counties across the country.

Health authorities stated that elderly individuals were the most affected group, with four patients over 80 years old, 22 aged between 70 and 79, 10 aged 60–69, and eight aged 50–59. A few infections were also reported among younger people, including two in their 30s and one teenager aged between 10 and 19.

Officials urged the public to take preventive measures to reduce exposure to mosquitoes — such as wearing protective clothing, using repellents, installing mosquito nets or window screens, and eliminating stagnant water near residential areas.

The West Nile virus, transmitted primarily through mosquito bites, poses a serious public health concern during warmer months. While the World Health Organization (WHO) notes that about 80 percent of infected individuals remain asymptomatic, the virus can sometimes lead to severe neurological complications or even death.

Romania has reported sporadic outbreaks of the disease in recent years, but health authorities warn that climate change and rising temperatures could increase the spread of mosquito-borne infections in the region.(ILKHA)