Istanbul's West Nile Virus map: In which districts was it seen? Residents of the European Side, take note!

First detected in Turkey in 2010, the West Nile Virus has begun to appear in many districts of Istanbul. 

According to a statement made by the Ministry of Health in August, the virus was detected in six people this year. 

According to Prof. Dr. Önder Ergönül, Head of the Koç University İş Bank Infectious Diseases Research Center, hundreds of cases have been recorded in Istanbul in 2024. 

Prof. Dr. Ergönül stated, "The number of cases is increasing in districts on the European Side such as Küçükçekmece, Büyükçekmece, Beylikdüzü, and Avcılar, particularly around lakes and ponds where mosquitoes are dense."

It is noted that cases outside of Istanbul have also been seen in cities such as Edirne, Kırklareli, Bursa, Adana, Osmaniye, and Antakya.

What Precautions Should Be Taken?

Prof. Dr. Yavuz emphasized that to prevent mosquitoes from entering homes, window screens should be installed, long-sleeved clothing should be worn in areas with high mosquito density, and insect repellent sprays should be used. The Ministry of Health recommends measures such as draining stagnant water, using fans, and keeping mosquitoes away from indoor spaces.

Prof. Dr. Ergönül from Koç University warned citizens, saying, "If symptoms such as persistent high fever, headache, confusion, or muscle weakness are felt, a healthcare facility should be consulted without delay."

According to the World Health Organization, the West Nile Virus is transmitted through mosquito bites and does not show symptoms in most people. However, 20 percent of those infected with the virus may experience symptoms such as fever, headache, and fatigue. 

Since there is no vaccine or direct treatment for the disease, it is stated that people in the risk group, in particular, should be careful.