Oristano reports its first West Nile virus case of 2026. Local Health Authority (ASL) states, "This is a danger to the frail and elderly. Here's what to do."

A case of West Nile Disease has been recorded – the first of 2026 – in a person
A woman over sixty years old, resident in the Oristano Local Health Authority (ASL) , was hospitalized in recent days with high fever and headache , symptoms consistent with West Nile fever. Laboratory tests confirmed the diagnosis. She has already been discharged and is currently in good health.
The epidemiological investigation was conducted by the Prevention Department of the ASL 5 of Oristano.
"The detection of a case of West Nile fever in our area as early as May confirms that the virus is circulating and therefore must push us to take precautions now to protect ourselves from mosquito bites, the insect that transmits the West Nile virus, which is especially dangerous for the frail and elderly, " said Maria Valentina Marras, director of the Health and Prevention Department of the Oristano Local Health Authority (ASL) 5.
The virus is asymptomatic in 80 percent of people who contract it, while in 20 percent of cases it can cause fever, headache, and muscle aches. In less than 1 percent of cases, the disease presents as a neuroinvasive form (encephalitis, meningitis, meningoencephalitis, or flaccid paralysis): a risk that increases with age and is more common after age 60.
As usual, we urge you to avoid standing water, where mosquito larvae breed. It's therefore important to frequently empty pet food bowls, plant pots, containers, and paddling pools. When outdoors, especially at dusk, it's important to cover your body, legs, and arms, wear light-colored clothing, use insect repellent spray, and secure your doors and windows with screens to keep your home safe.
The Oristano Local Health Authority has been collaborating with the Province for several months on an action plan for the prevention of West Nile fever, which includes a widespread information campaign and mosquito control.
"West Nile virus has long been endemic in this area ," says Grazia Cattina, general director of the Oristano Local Health Authority (ASL) 5. "This is why it is essential that all vaccines are introduced into daily use."
"Those precautions and habits that can protect us from mosquito bites. The Oristano Local Health Authority is paying maximum attention to this issue," Grazia Cattina continues. "This year, thanks to close collaboration with the Province, we are also planning to strengthen prevention measures. Each of us must do our part, through a few simple measures."

(Unioneonline)