West Nile virus cases in Greece surge: 157 infections and 13 deaths

West Nile virus spread sharply accelerated in Greece. Last week, 47 new infections and four new deaths were reported. As of August 19, the total confirmed local cases since the start of the season reached 157, and 13 patients have died.

According to the latest report of the National Public Health Organization of Greece (EODY), 116 of the 157 infected had central nervous system involvement—encephalitis, meningitis, or acute flaccid paralysis. The remaining 41 had milder disease or no neurological symptoms.

All 13 deceased patients were over 65 years old. Their median age was 82, the youngest was 66, and the oldest was 91.

As of publication, 42 patients were in hospitals. More than half—23 patients—needed intensive or high-dependency care.

Most new cases detected in Attica

Infection spread is especially noticeable in Attica, where Athens and popular tourist coastal areas are located. According to Greek media citing EODY, Attica accounted for about 70% of new confirmed cases over the last week.

New cases were reported in the municipalities of Dionysos, Kallithea, and Petroupoli. Infections are also detected in other regions, so health authorities recommend mosquito protection measures throughout Greece, not only in areas with known hotspots.

West Nile virus is transmitted to humans mainly through bites of infected mosquitoes, which become infected from birds. Ordinary contact with a sick person does not transmit the infection.

Most infected people do not notice the illness: according to EODY, about 80% have no symptoms, and about 20% have mild illness. Severe neurological disease develops in less than 1% of infected individuals. The highest risk of severe illness is in the elderly and people with weakened immune systems and chronic diseases.

There is no specific vaccine against West Nile virus for humans. Greek doctors recommend using repellents and mosquito nets, wearing long-sleeved clothing and long pants when possible, and removing standing water containers near homes where mosquitoes breed.

West Nile virus has been recorded in Greece almost every year since 2010, mainly in summer and early autumn. The current increase is occurring at the height of the tourist season, so EODY recommendations are especially relevant for foreign visitors to the country.

Sources: EODY, CNN Greece