Mérida, 25 September 2026 — The Extremadura Health Service has confirmed three new cases of West Nile fever in Extremadura . Those affected are two women and one man, aged 87, 72 and 82, from Don Benito and Acedera in the health district Don Benito–Villanueva de la Serena. According to the authorities, one of the three people is in hospital, while the others are receiving outpatient care.
The Junta de Extremadura said it would step up seasonal monitoring of mosquito populations and potential breeding sites in the affected areas. Residents are advised to avoid stagnant water on private property, cover water butts and other containers, clean gutters and courtyard drains, and remove possible breeding sites. At the same time, the regional health service is carrying out laboratory analyses to confirm suspected cases and updating situation reports on an ongoing basis.
West Nile infections are often mild or asymptomatic. Complications such as inflammation of the brain or meninges occur mainly in older people or those with pre-existing conditions. Doctors in Extremadura have been instructed to consider West Nile virus in the differential diagnosis of unexplained fever, headaches or neurological symptoms during mosquito season, and to collect samples promptly. Suspected cases at health centres in the Don Benito–Villanueva de la Serena area are recorded through standard reporting channels and referred to the relevant Servicio Extremeño de Salud bodies for confirmation.
The newly confirmed cases form part of ongoing virus activity in the region in late summer and early autumn. The health service notes that person-to-person transmission in everyday life is not expected; the virus is usually transmitted by mosquitoes. Measures therefore focus on vector control, environmental monitoring and public information. Municipalities and specialist agencies are coordinating regular checks of mosquito traps, water bodies and risk areas, and, where necessary, taking further preventive steps in coordination with the Junta de Extremadura.
The authorities said they would inform the public in upcoming situation reports about epidemiological developments, possible hotspots and any additional local measures. Until then, they recommend consistent protection against mosquitoes, removing stagnant water around homes, and seeking medical advice for persistent fever or new neurological symptoms. There are no specific travel restrictions within Extremadura; the recommendations are aimed at prevention and early diagnosis. Mérida remains the central point for regional coordination and publication of situation reports.
Editor: Mira Cadena (Article created with AI assistance).