West Nile Virus cases rise in Greece, 13-year-old hospitalized

Greece is grappling with a surge in West Nile Virus (WNV) infections, with health authorities reporting 75 new domestic cases in the last week alone. This marks a concerning rise in the mosquito-borne illness across the country.

Among the recent cases is a 13-year-old boy, who required hospitalization due to complications arising from the virus. This incident is notable as it represents the first reported case of a minor contracting WNV with symptoms during the current season. Fortunately, the boy responded well to treatment and was discharged from the hospital on Wednesday evening, with his health now reported as stable.

Overall, the total number of domestic WNV infections reported in Greece for the 2026 season, up to August 26, stands at 232. Of these, a significant portion, 165 cases, involved severe neurological manifestations such as encephalitis or meningitis, or acute flaccid paralysis. An additional 67 cases presented with milder symptoms or no neurological involvement.

Tragically, the virus has claimed 19 lives this season, all of whom were individuals aged 65 and older. The median age of those who died was 85, with the range spanning from 66 to 92 years. The highest concentration of new cases is observed in the municipalities of eastern Attica, though sporadic cases are now appearing in most regions of the country.