Croatia has recorded 15 cases of West Nile virus infection since the beginning of the year, with 10 patients hospitalized due to severe symptoms linked to the disease.

The Croatian Institute of Public Health announced that an increase in West Nile virus cases has been observed across the country this year.

According to the statement, 15 people have tested positive for the virus since January. Ten of these patients developed serious clinical symptoms and were hospitalized, while five cases were reported without symptoms.

Health authorities said no deaths related to the virus have been recorded in Croatia so far, but the number of cases is higher compared with the same period last year.

Most of the severe cases involved older patients, with some developing neurological complications associated with the infection.

Severe forms can affect the nervous system

Health experts warned that West Nile virus can, in some cases, lead to serious conditions affecting the central nervous system, including meningitis and encephalitis.

Although many infected people show mild or no symptoms, severe cases can cause high fever, headaches, confusion, muscle weakness and neurological problems, particularly among elderly people and those with weakened immune systems.

Croatian health authorities urged citizens to take precautions against mosquito bites, which are the main method of transmission of the virus.

Residents were advised to remove stagnant water from gardens, yards and areas around homes where mosquitoes can breed, and to use mosquito repellents when necessary.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has also warned that West Nile virus activity continues across parts of Europe during the current season, with several countries reporting infections linked to mosquito populations.(ILKHA)