Two popular Spanish holiday destinations, Fuengirola and Mijas, have been placed on red alert after cases of West Nile virus were detected. The potentially fatal disease, transmitted by mosquitoes, has led to five confirmed diagnoses in the Andalucía region.
Health officials confirmed the virus was found in mosquito traps installed in both municipalities, which are visited by thousands of British tourists each year. The regional government declared alerts in Bollullos de la Mitación, Fuengirola, and the Las Lagunas area of Mijas. These will remain in place for at least four weeks unless no further cases or virus traces are found.
In addition to the three newly alerted areas, a total of 15 municipalities across Andalucía are now under surveillance. The first case this season was confirmed in a man from Coria del Río (Seville) who fell ill on July 17. Tests at the Virgen del Rocío University Hospital confirmed the infection, described as mild.
Authorities have urged residents and visitors to take preventive measures, including using mosquito repellent, wearing light-coloured clothing that covers most of the body, and avoiding strong perfumes that attract insects. Domestic measures such as installing mosquito nets and eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed are also recommended.
West Nile virus is primarily transmitted by mosquitoes that feed on infected birds. While around 80% of infected people show no symptoms, others may experience fever, headache, fatigue, and muscle pain. In severe cases, the virus can cause neurological complications and be fatal.
