Romania's National Public Health Institute reported a new case of West Nile virus infection, marking the country's second confirmed case this season. The latest infection occurred in an 80-year-old individual from Mures County in central Romania, according to a report by Xinhua news agency.

West Nile virus (WNV) is a serious illness that can lead to neurological complications and even death. The virus is spread through a transmission cycle involving birds and mosquitoes. While most human infections result from mosquito bites, there is currently no specific vaccine or antiviral treatment available for WNV.

The majority of individuals infected with West Nile Virus may not show any symptoms. However, about 20 per cent of infected people can develop mild symptoms, including:

- Fever

- Headache

- Body aches

- Fatigue

- Skin rash

- Swollen lymph nodes

While these symptoms can be mild and often subside soon, West Nile virus can also lead to severe illness in some cases, especially among older adults and people with weakened immune systems. Severe symptoms can include:

- High fever

- Severe headache

- Stiff neck

- Disorientation

- Tremors or convulsions

- Muscle weakness

- Vision loss

- Numbness

- Paralysis

These severe symptoms may indicate neuroinvasive disease, such as encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord), or acute flaccid paralysis. In rare cases, West Nile virus infection can be fatal.

Due to the continuous increase in cases, the public health authorities are urging the public to take preventive measures to reduce the risk of West Nile virus infection. These include:

1. Wearing Protective Clothing: Individuals are advised to wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors, especially during peak mosquito activity times at dawn and dusk. This can help reduce skin exposure to mosquito bites.

2. Using Mosquito Repellents and Insecticides: Applying insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus on exposed skin and clothing can significantly lower the risk of mosquito bites. Additionally, using insecticides in and around homes can help control mosquito populations.

3. Installing Window and Door Screens: Ensuring that windows and doors have intact screens can prevent mosquitoes from entering homes. Repairing any tears or gaps in screens is crucial to keep these pests out.

4. Eliminating Standing Water: Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, so it's essential to remove any potential breeding sites. This includes regularly emptying bird baths, pet water dishes, and flower pot saucers, and ensuring gutters and drainage areas are clear.

Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Health and around the world.