Romania reports 9 deaths from West Nile virus

Romania has reported nine deaths from West Nile virus infections this summer, according to the National Institute of Public Health (INSP) on Thursday, reported Xinhua.

Since June 3, the country has reported 73 cases of infection, including 65 confirmed cases and eight suspected cases. The INSP noted that the majority of patients are elderly people, with 23 individuals aged 70 to 79, and 19 aged 60 to 69.

The INSP has advised the public to avoid mosquito bites by using repellents, wearing protective clothing, and eliminating stagnant water around homes to reduce mosquito breeding.

West Nile virus can cause neurological disease and death in humans. According to the World Health Organization, it is primarily transmitted through mosquito bites, with 80 percent of infected individuals showing no symptoms.