More patients in Serbia infected with the dangerous virus: The elderly are endangered

According to their data, cases of the disease were registered on the territory of 12 districts, namely 23 cases in Belgrade, 11 cases in the district of Southern Backa, then 4 cases each in Middle Banat and Braničevo region.

Also, 3 cases were recorded in South Banat and Danubian districts per district, two cases each in Morava, North Banat and Šumadija districts, while there was one case each in Danubian, Raška and West Bačka districts.

The majority of patients are male (65%). The average age of the patients is 68 years.

In the surveillance season of 2025, until September 17, 2025, in the countries of the European Union (EU) and the European Economic Community (EEA), cases of West Nile fever in the human population were registered in Greece, Italy, Romania, France, Bulgaria, Hungary, Spain, Albania and Turkey.

West Nile fever is a seasonal disease transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito. The main vector, i.e. the transmitter of the West Nile virus, is Culex pipiens, a species of mosquito that is also domesticated in our country. The West Nile virus transmission season in Serbia usually lasts from June to November.

Recommendations of "Batut"

In order to reduce the risk of infection with the West Nile virus, it is recommended to apply personal protection measures against mosquito bites, such as the use of repellents on exposed parts of the body when outdoors, wearing long-sleeved clothing, light colors, and comfortable clothing.

Thus, it is advised to avoid being outdoors during the period of the most intensive activity of mosquitoes - at dusk and at dawn.

They point out that it is preferable to use protective nets against mosquitoes on windows, doors and around the bed, as well as preferably staying in air-conditioned rooms, because the number of insects in such conditions is significantly reduced.

In addition, it is desirable to reduce the number of mosquitoes outdoors where you work, play or stay, which is achieved by drying the source of stagnant water, because in this way the number of places where mosquitoes can lay their eggs is reduced.

In the case of traveling abroad, especially if it is a tropical and subtropical area, it is mandatory to observe all preventive measures.