Greece Reports Eight Deaths and 22 New West Nile Virus Cases in Past Week

Greece has experienced a surge in West Nile virus infections, with eight deaths and 22 new cases reported over the past week.

Since the start of 2024 through September 11, the country has recorded a total of 162 domestic cases. Of these, 121 cases involved severe manifestations affecting the Central Nervous System (CNS), including encephalitis, meningitis, and acute flaccid paralysis, while 41 cases were either mild or asymptomatic.

According to the Hellenic National Public Health Organization (EODY), the latest week saw a rise of 22 new domestic cases. Additionally, there were four reported imported cases: three from Albania and one from Austria. Two more cases are under investigation to determine if they are imported or domestic, but these are not yet included in the overall analysis.

The virus has been particularly deadly for older individuals, with 25 recorded deaths, all among patients aged over 60. The median age of the deceased is 80, with ages ranging from 61 to 93. In the past week alone, eight deaths were attributed to the virus, while one additional death was linked to a serious co-existing health issue and not included in the total death count.

West Nile virus infections have been identified in 62 municipalities across 28 regional units in Greece. The situation remains under close monitoring as health authorities continue their investigations and response efforts.