North Macedonia records rise in infectious diseases in September 2026; West Nile cases reported

Health authorities in North Macedonia recorded 1,042 cases of acute infectious diseases in September 2026, a 22 percent increase compared with the same month a year earlier. Enterocolitis was the most common diagnosis with 694 reported cases, and 123 cases of chickenpox were also logged.

West Nile cases and deaths raise alarms

The Institute of Public Health signalled particular concern about West Nile fever: 16 cases were confirmed in September and four people died. Meanwhile, paediatric outpatient visits at the University Children’s Clinic Kozle have risen because of respiratory infections.

“So far there is no isolated case of influenza. At this time we expect the number we see over a 24‑hour period and the number of hospitalized children. If we compare with the summer months and the start of September, the number has increased, but it is not something we do not expect at this time of year now that autumn has begun and children have returned to group settings,” said Dr. Filip Doksimovski of the University Clinic for Respiratory Diseases in Children – Kozle.

Seasonal flu vaccination is under way. The greatest demand comes from people over 65 and from patients with chronic illnesses, who sign up for vaccination via the Moj termin appointment system. According to the Institute of Public Health, two cases of influenza A have been confirmed so far, and 65 patients with influenza‑like illness have been reported but not laboratory‑confirmed. Delivery of Japanese BCG vaccines is expected after use of Bulgarian batches was halted over quality concerns.

During September eight new HIV/AIDS cases were registered and two people died. “According to the existing registry of reported cases (as of 30.09.2026), the total number of reported HIV/AIDS cases in 2026 is 49, while the cumulative number of persons registered with HIV/AIDS in North Macedonia for the period 1987–2026 is 778, namely: 144 deceased persons, 520 persons living with HIV/AIDS and 114 persons listed as lost to follow‑up (emigrated),” the Institute of Public Health said.

Also reported in September were five cases of hepatitis B and four cases of pertussis, all in the capital. Most infectious disease notifications came from Skopje (385 cases), while the highest incidence rate was recorded in Shtip. Twelve new COVID‑19 cases were registered in the month with no fatalities. Authorities reiterated standard precautions: regular handwashing, ventilating indoor spaces, avoiding close contact with sick people and maintaining healthy habits.

Photo: press material from the event