Greece has recorded 180 domestic cases of West Nile virus infection in 2024, resulting in 27 deaths. The outbreak has prompted health officials to urge vigilance and emphasize the importance of mosquito control measures and individual protection.
Greece has recorded 180 domestic cases of West Nile virus infection since the beginning of the year. Of these, 132 cases presented with symptoms affecting the Central Nervous System (CNS) such as encephalitis, meningitis, and/or acute flaccid paralysis. The remaining 48 cases either presented with mild symptoms or were asymptomatic.
Tragically, the virus has claimed the lives of 27 individuals. During the past week alone, 2 deaths were attributed to the virus. An additional death of a patient diagnosed with West Nile virus was attributed to other serious underlying health conditions and was not included in the official death toll.
The Hellenic National Public Health Organization (EODY) reported 18 new domestic cases in the past week. Furthermore, 4 imported cases were identified in patients who had traveled abroad (3 to Albania and 1 to Austria). These cases are not included in the further analysis of domestic cases. Two additional cases with complex travel histories are currently under investigation to determine if they are imported or domestic.
Cases of West Nile virus infection have been recorded in settlements across 63 municipalities in 29 regional units of Greece. These include the regional units of Larissa, Karditsa, Trikala, Lefkada, Thesprotia, Preveza, Chalkidiki, Pella, Pieria, Serres, Kilkis, Imathia, Rodopi, Drama, Evros, Xanthi, Kavala, Thassos, Achaia, Aetoloacarnania, Ilia, Argolis, Arcadia, South Athens, Central Athens, East Attica, Fthiotida, Boeotia, and the Metropolitan Unit of Thessaloniki.
Beyond Greece, cases of West Nile virus have been reported in several other European Union countries and neighboring regions, including Italy, Spain, France, Germany, Austria, Hungary, Romania, Slovenia, Croatia, Kosovo, Albania, Serbia, North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Turkey.
Epidemiological surveillance, the timely implementation of comprehensive mosquito control programs, and individual protection measures against mosquito bites remain the most effective measures for controlling the disease. In this context, vigilance from healthcare professionals and continued alertness from local and national authorities are essential.
Source: ANA-MPA
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