West Nile virus cases and deaths are increasing in Greece

According to data from the Greek National Public Health Agency (EODY), 453 West Nile virus cases were detected in the country from the beginning of 2026 to October 22.

With the death of 2 people due to West Nile virus in the week of October 16-22, the number of deaths from West Nile virus since the beginning of the year increased to 51, while the age range of those who died was determined as 36-92.

The number of patients treated in intensive care due to the virus was recorded as 12.

The region where West Nile virus cases were most common was Athens and its surroundings.

Nea Smirni, Nea Filadelfia, Dafni, Nikaia and Peristeri were among the "most dangerous regions" in EODY's list.

In the previous week, 2 people in the country died due to West Nile virus.

THERE IS NO VACCINE OR DEFINITIVE TREATMENT

The virus, which was initially seen only in Africa, spread over time to many European countries, especially France, Italy, Spain and Portugal. There has been an epidemic in Germany every year since 2019.

While there is no vaccine or special treatment to protect against West Nile virus, which is mostly transmitted by the bite of "Culex" species mosquitoes, protection against mosquito bites is recommended.

It is known that the incubation period from the bite of a mosquito varies between 2 and 14 days, and this period increases to 21 days in those with weak immunity. It is stated that approximately 80 percent of people infected with the virus do not have any symptoms, and approximately 20 percent of patients experience symptoms such as fever, weakness, nausea and vomiting, headache and muscle pain.