Rising West Nile virus cases in Greece and hospitalization of journalist Antonis Panoutsos

Greece is currently experiencing a significant surge in West Nile virus infections, with authorities reporting 157 domestic cases identified since the start of the 2026 season through August 19. Among those affected is the prominent sports journalist Antonis Panoutsos, 78, who remains in critical condition and intubated in the intensive care unit at the Evangelismos Hospital in Athens after suffering from encephalitis linked to the virus.

Public health officials note that 116 of the recorded cases involved central nervous system complications. To date, 13 deaths have been confirmed, all involving patients over the age of 65 with a median age of 82. While experts like Matina Pagoni emphasize that the situation does not warrant panic and note that many victims had underlying health conditions, they express concern over the unexpected prevalence of the virus in Attica. Despite ongoing mosquito control efforts, high humidity levels have contributed to the persistence of the mosquito population, particularly in suburban areas around Athens.