At least nine municipalities in Malaga province have been placed on high alert after mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus were detected.
The alarm was sounded by the regional health authority at the Junta de Andalucia.
The affected areas include towns hugely popular with the expat community, including Coin, Alhaurin de la Torre and Alhaurin el Grande.
The other affected municipalities in Malaga are:
- Almargen
- Antequera
- Cartama
- Coin
- Guaro
- Malaga city
- Pizarra
Meanwhile, Mijas is also listed as being at moderate risk.
Virus confirmed in Malaga city and Antequera
It comes as the El Tarajal neighbourhood in Malaga capital has been officially declared an alert zone until November 5, following confirmation of West Nile virus in Culex mosquitoes caught near residential areas.
Meanwhile in Antequera, the virus was also confirmed after a horse tested positive in a stable located away from populated zones.
The data comes from entomological surveillance conducted by the Junta’s health department, in coordination with the Doñana Biological Station (CSIC) and the Huelva mosquito control service, which currently has 191 traps installed across Andalusia.
Recent captures in Malaga city showed elevated mosquito density levels.
Some 99 towns at high risk across Andalucia
In addition to the nine municipalities in Malaga, the Junta reports high-risk status in:
- 42 towns in Sevilla
- 16 in Cadiz
- 15 in Huelva
- 11 in Cordoba
- 7 in Jaén
- 4 in Almeria
- 4 in Granada
Health recommendations
The Directorate General of Public Health urges residents in affected areas to take precautions, especially during dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.
Key recommendations include:
- Use registered topical mosquito repellents
- Wear light-coloured clothing that covers as much skin as possible
- Avoid strong perfumes or scented lotions, which attract mosquitoes
- Turn off unnecessary lights, as light draws them in
Eliminate standing water, which serves as mosquito breeding grounds, this includes clearing water from flowerpots, toys, buckets, garden features, or unused pools
Authorities stress the importance of regular maintenance of cisterns, pools, wash basins and fountains to prevent larvae from developing.
Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.
