Greece: West Nile virus cases surge with 23 new infections reported

Greece has seen a sharp rise in West Nile virus infections, reporting 23 new locally acquired cases in the last week alone. This brings the total number of infections since May to 65, according to the National Public Health Organization (EODY). The virus has taken a severe toll, with 54 of the infected individuals developing serious central nervous system complications, including encephalitis, meningitis, and acute flaccid paralysis. Tragically, six deaths have been attributed to the virus this season, all occurring in individuals over the age of 65 who had developed neurological complications. The median age of those who died was 79. Infections have been reported across 25 municipalities in ten regional units, with the Attica region, home to the capital Athens, experiencing particularly intense spread. The West Nile virus, transmitted by mosquitoes, has become a recurring public health concern in Greece, with cases typically increasing during the peak mosquito season from May to November.