First case of West Nile virus reported in Cyprus for 2026

Health authorities in Cyprus confirmed the first case of the West Nile virus for 2026 on August 20. The patient, a 70-year-old man, is currently being treated in serious condition at the intensive care unit of Nicosia General Hospital. Medical experts noted that the individual has no recent history of travel, indicating that the infection was acquired locally.

The West Nile virus is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected Culex pipiens mosquitoes, which are most active during the summer months. While the majority of infections are asymptomatic or present with mild flu-like symptoms, this specific case involves the rare development of a serious nervous system infection. Authorities emphasized that the virus is not transmitted from person to person through social contact or clinical care.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) recently categorized Cyprus as a high-risk area for mosquito-borne diseases. This classification follows a general rise in such illnesses across the Mediterranean region. While there are no further details regarding the patient's prognosis, the health ministry continues to monitor the situation as the summer season persists.