A West Nile fever epidemic in Skopje has been declared in Kisela Voda, Ilinden, Gazi Baba and Butel after health authorities recorded an increased number of cases, including one death. A total of 26 cases of the virus have been confirmed in Macedonia so far this year.
The Commission for Infectious Diseases proposed declaring an epidemic in the four municipalities based on the epidemiological situation. Health Minister Azir Aliu confirmed that the proposal had been accepted and that the epidemic was officially declared.
26 Cases Confirmed, One Patient Dies
According to the latest data from the Institute of Public Health, 26 cases of West Nile fever have been confirmed in Macedonia since the beginning of 2026. Twenty-five of those cases were recorded among Macedonian citizens, while one involved a foreign national.
The largest number of cases has been registered in Skopje. Among the affected municipalities are Kisela Voda, Ilinden, Gazi Baba and Butel, where the epidemic has now been formally declared.
One patient has died from the disease. The deceased was a 74-year-old man from Skopje who had several chronic illnesses and was hospitalized at the Clinic for Infectious Diseases and Febrile Conditions.
According to the information presented by health authorities, the patient developed symptoms on July 27. His condition subsequently deteriorated, and he died on August 8.
The confirmed cases include patients of different ages, while several have required hospital treatment. Authorities are continuing to monitor the epidemiological situation and the possible appearance of additional cases.
Authorities Order Measures Against Mosquitoes
Following the declaration of the West Nile fever epidemic in Skopje, the Commission for Infectious Diseases proposed a series of measures aimed at controlling the spread of the virus.
Among the measures is intensified mosquito control in the affected areas. Municipalities have been instructed to carry out enhanced disinsection and activities targeting both adult mosquitoes and mosquito larvae.
Health authorities also called for strengthened epidemiological surveillance and increased awareness among healthcare professionals to ensure that potential cases are recognized and reported.
Citizens have been advised to protect themselves from mosquito bites by using repellents, wearing clothing that covers more of the body and installing protective nets on windows and doors. Authorities also recommend removing standing water from containers around homes because such locations can serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
Special attention is recommended for older people and people with chronic illnesses because they face a greater risk of developing more severe forms of the disease.
The authorities said the epidemiological situation would continue to be monitored and that additional measures could be introduced depending on how the situation develops.
