Greece has confirmed 21 cases of West Nile fever, as health officials warn of a seasonal resurgence of the mosquito-borne virus that has also been detected in North Macedonia, Italy, Spain and Romania.
According to Greece’s National Public Health Organization (EODY), 20 of the infected patients have developed severe neurological complications, including encephalitis, meningitis or paralysis. Fourteen new cases were recorded over the past week, while 13 people remain hospitalized. No deaths have been reported.
Most infections have been identified in the Attica region, including the municipalities of Spata-Artemida, Markopoulo, Vari, Koropi, Lavrio, Nea Ionia, Athens and Glyfada. Additional cases have also been reported in Larissa and Palama.
West Nile fever is transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes. While most infected people develop no symptoms or only mild illness, older adults and people with weakened immune systems face a higher risk of severe neurological disease.
The virus has been endemic in Greece since 2010, with outbreaks typically occurring during the summer mosquito season.
Health officials said similar epidemiological trends have been observed in North Macedonia, Italy, Romania and Spain, prompting increased surveillance and mosquito-control measures across several countries.
Greek authorities urged local institutions to continue systematic mosquito-control programs and called on the public to protect themselves by using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing and eliminating standing water where mosquitoes can breed.