The health ministry of Greece has issued a warning about the risks of disease-carrying mosquitoes, urging both the public and relevant health bodies to pay attention to dengue fever and the Zika and Chikungunya viruses.
Medical and health authorities across Greece have been alerted to the issue and told to pay specific attention to potential mosquito breeding grounds like ponds and areas of greenery.
Medical facilities have been advised to protect patients, staff members, and visitors by placing mosquito nets across windows, doors, and other relevant places. The use of repellent has also been recommended.
Greek Health Ministry highlights risk of diseases spread by mosquitos
The Health Ministry of Greece has also urged municipal units to adopt measures to protect against the risks of diseases spread by mosquitoes.
Some of the suggested measures are targeted at reducing potential breeding grounds, as well as ensuring adequate hygiene, spreading public awareness, and implementing management projects to limit the potential for mosquitoes to breed.
According to a statement released by the Health Ministry, the risk posed by mosquitoes “makes it imperative to take measures for the surveillance and control of mosquitoes, with special attention and enhanced surveillance in areas that are potential gateways.”
Disease risk
The three diseases highlighted by the Greek Health Ministry as posing a particularly prominent risk were dengue fever and the Zika and Chikungunya viruses.
Dengue fever is principally spread by mosquitoes. The infection usually requires minimal medical intervention, according to medical bodies like the NHS.
The Zika virus is also often spread by mosquitoes. The symptoms often include fever, rash, headache, joint pain, red eyes, and/or muscle pain.
The Chikungunya virus is spread through the bites of an infected mosquito. Symptoms typically include fever and joint pain, but headaches, muscle pain, joint swelling, and rashes may also occur.
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