West Nile virus reaches record levels in Europe during 2026

During the 2026 transmission season, Cyprus recorded 21 human cases of West Nile virus and two equine outbreaks, according to data released by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). The findings, based on information current as of November 4, 2026, place Cyprus among 15 European Union and European Economic Area (EU/EEA) countries that confirmed locally acquired infections this year.

Across the EU and EEA, authorities documented 1,883 human cases, marking a record high compared to the previous decade's average of 698. The virus spread across 211 regions, representing its widest geographical reach since surveillance began. Italy reported the highest figures with 783 cases and 60 deaths, followed by Greece. Overall, there were 148 reported deaths across the region.

Despite the significant surge in caseloads, the ECDC reported that the disease's severity has not increased. The case fatality rate for 2026 stood at approximately 8 percent, which is lower than the ten-year average of 10 percent. Additionally, rates of hospitalization and neurological complications remain below historical averages, suggesting that while transmission is widespread, the clinical impact per case is currently stable.