West Nile virus in Corsica
A human case of West Nile virus has been reported in Corsica, France after the individual visited the island on holiday, having first been to Alpes-Maritimes on the mainland, which is an area where West Nile cases have been reported this year. It is not known whether the infection was transmitted on Corsica or in mainland France.
There are no vaccines to prevent or medications to treat the virus. Most people infected with the disease do not have symptoms, while around one in five will develop a fever and other symptoms. About one in 150 infected people can develop a serious and sometimes fatal illness.
As there is no vaccine against the virus, advice is for travellers to practice mosquito bite avoidance when visiting areas experiencing an outbreak of the virus. This includes using insect repellents, wearing loose clothing and covering up with clothing, and using mosquito nets and mosquito screens.