West Nile virus alarm in Greece: 453 cases, 51 deaths
According to data from the Greek National Public Health Organization (EODY), 453 West Nile virus cases have been recorded in the country from the beginning of 2026 until October 22.
With 2 people losing their lives due to the virus between October 16-22, the total death toll for the year has reached 51. While it was stated that those who lost their lives were between the ages of 36-92, it was reported that 12 people are receiving intensive care treatment due to the virus.
Athens and its surrounding area became the region where West Nile virus cases were most frequently observed. Nea Smirni, Nea Filadelfia, Dafni, Nikaia, and Peristeri were also included in EODY's list of risky areas.
In the previous week, 2 people had also lost their lives in Greece due to the West Nile virus.
While the West Nile virus is transmitted to humans mostly through the bites of infected Culex mosquitoes, wild birds are among the natural hosts of the virus; the disease generally does not transmit directly from person to person and can manifest with symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle ache, fatigue, and rash.
First emerging in the African region, the West Nile Virus has been widely seen in Europe, the Middle East, North America, and West Asia. The Ministry of Health has announced that it has also been observed, albeit rarely, in our country since 2010.
