The number of West Nile virus infections in the province of Oristano has risen to fourteen. A man over fifty and a man over eighty are currently under observation at San Martino Hospital.

The Prevention Department of the Local Health Authority (ASL 5) of Oristano immediately began an epidemiological investigation and preventive measures, which include disinfecting the areas where people who have contracted the virus live.

The first case of West Nile virus dates back to last May and involved a person over sixty. The second case, a person over ninety, who, after contracting the virus and developing the disease, sadly died. The third case, a person over sixty, was discharged from the Oristano hospital and returned home. The fourth, a person over eighty-five, is still hospitalized at San Martino. The fifth and sixth cases involved a person in their fifties and a person over seventy, both of whom have returned home. The seventh and eighth cases were two people over seventy, still hospitalized at San Martino. The ninth case, a person over fifty, has already returned home. Finally, two people over seventy and a person over fifty are also still hospitalized at San Martino.

«We once again invite citizens, especially the frail and elderly, to prevent any risky situations and to protect themselves from the bites of this insect with all the tools we remember – is the appeal of the director of the Prevention Department Maria Valentina Marras – avoid stagnant water, protect yourself with repellent sprays and long clothing when outdoors, screen your home with mosquito nets».

"Even on the August bank holiday weekend, we are adhering to these guidelines, the only way to prevent and protect against this disease. And it's essential that those caring for the elderly and children ensure that they implement these protective measures," added Grazia Cattina, general director of the Local Health Authority (ASL 5).

(Unioneonline)

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