West Nile virus cases rise in Greece

Greece is experiencing an increase in West Nile virus infections, with the National Public Health Organization (EODY) reporting a total of 65 domestic cases since the start of the surveillance period through August 5, 2026. Of these, 54 patients developed central nervous system complications, while 11 showed mild or no such symptoms. Tragically, six deaths have been recorded, all involving patients over the age of 65 who suffered from central nervous system involvement. Twenty-three of these cases were diagnosed within the final week of the reporting period alone.

The outbreak has spread across 25 municipalities within ten regional units, primarily affecting the Attica, Thessaly, and Central Macedonia regions. Specific areas of concern include East, West, North, South, and Central Athens. Health authorities have emphasized the urgent need for public adherence to mosquito bite prevention measures and are currently intensifying vector control strategies and awareness campaigns to mitigate further transmission during the peak mosquito season.