Record spread of West Nile virus in Europe prompts blood safety concerns

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) reports a record number of West Nile virus cases across the EU and the European Economic Area for this time of year. As of October 14, 2026, the virus has reached 222 geographical areas, with 14 new regions added in the last week alone. Cyprus has recorded 21 locally acquired cases this year, marking an increase from the 13 cases reported in the previous month.

While the virus is primarily transmitted through mosquito bites, the ECDC warns that it can also be transmitted via blood transfusions. Given that many infected individuals remain asymptomatic, authorities have prioritized blood safety protocols. National health services are now tasked with monitoring local transmission zones to determine when to implement mandatory testing or temporary deferrals for potential blood donors who may have been exposed to the virus.

Previous ECDC data recorded 130 deaths due to the virus as of October 7, 2026. Health authorities in Cyprus currently conduct seasonal testing of blood supplies to mitigate risk, but officials are under pressure to maintain vigilance as the virus continues to spread across European borders.