ECDC: 77 cases of arbovirus transmission via blood in Europe – Data for Greece and Cyprus

A new ECDC report reveals 77 cases of arbovirus transmission via blood or cellular products in Europe between 2000 and 2025. Most cases involved West Nile virus and dengue fever, often transmitted by asymptomatic donors. While Greece recorded four West Nile virus cases related to blood transfusions during 2010-2021, Cyprus reported zero incidents. However, the presence of disease-carrying mosquitoes in Cyprus maintains a potential risk, prompting experts to recommend targeted surveillance rather than universal testing for all blood donations.