Scientific study confirms detection of Usutu virus in Cyprus mosquitoes

A study published in the journal Parasites & Vectors reports the first detection of the Usutu virus (USUV) in Culex pipiens mosquitoes in Cyprus. Data collected between 2019 and 2022 in Nicosia and Limassol identified the virus in mosquito populations. Dr. Petros Karayiannis explains that the virus, known for 50 years, is primarily transmitted between birds and mosquitoes, with humans acting as dead-end hosts. Research identified hybrid mosquito forms capable of acting as bridges for virus transmission from birds to mammals and humans. Despite these findings, health experts state there is no cause for concern as the virus has not caused significant human outbreaks in the region to date. Transmission from human to human does not occur, and infections are often asymptomatic. The study highlights the role of climate change and urbanization in the increasing risk of zoonotic diseases on the island.