West Nile Fever Outbreak: Tunisia rushes to curb spread of mosquito-borne virus

World
Europe

02:17

Tunisian authorities are going all out to stop the spread of the West Nile fever. It's the first time in decades that cases of the viral infection have been reported in the North African country. Epidemiologists have blamed recent climatic conditions for the outbreak. West Nile fever is spread by mosquitoes and can be deadly if not treated. CGTN's Adnen Chaouachi reports.

Several cases of people affected by West Nile virus have been recorded in Tunisia. The recent floods and torrential rains were followed by warm weather which favored the development of colonies of mosquitoes which transmit the virus.

IMED HAMMAMI TUNISIAN HEALTH MINISTER "It is the autumn season and the temperatures are very high. We are facing many threats and disease outbreaks like the West Nile Virus. We have provided the necessary means for health authorities to react and intervene anywhere across Tunisia."

Experts assert that the public health response to the potential outbreak is robust but challenges remain.

DR. HOUSSIN JABRAN GABES REGIONAL HEALTH AUTHORITY "It should be noted at the outset that, very fortunately, the recent outbreak did not involve large numbers of cases. No deaths were recorded. Only one region is been affected so far but we are extremely vigilant."

The Ministry of Health in Tunisia has trained dozens of doctors to prepare its departments for epidemics.

DR. MOHANNAD AL-NSOUR EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN PUBLIC HEALTH NETWORK "The cooperation with the Tunisian health authorities is fruitful. The country is ready to face epidemics like West Nile disease or any other disease outbreak."

The Regional Directors of Health in the North West affirmed that no cases of epidemic diseases were recorded in 96 percent of the Tunisian territory.

ADNEN CHAOUACHI TUNIS "Tunisian authorities assert that the public health indicators are stable in the country and the concerned structures are on standby and are closely monitoring the situation. In addition, the prevention and awareness campaigns have been stepped up to reassure and further protect the population. Adnen Chaouachi, CGTN, Tunis."