West Nile Virus in Attica: Health Association Demands Action Review

The Athens Medical Association (ISA) has voiced strong concerns regarding the escalating presence of the West Nile Virus (WNV) in Attica, Greece. The region is experiencing a particularly high burden of the virus, accounting for approximately six out of every ten cases reported nationwide. This disproportionate impact has prompted ISA to call for greater transparency and accountability from public health authorities.

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An organized system of entomological surveillance, early detection of the virus's circulation, an alarm protocol, and the immediate implementation of specific response actions by the responsible bodies are needed.

In a recent statement, ISA President G. Patoulis stressed the critical need for an organized system of entomological surveillance, early detection of the virus's circulation, and a clear alarm protocol. He also called for the immediate implementation of specific response actions by relevant bodies. The association is demanding the publication of epidemiological surveillance data and the official Action Plan, seeking a comprehensive assessment of all measures that were implemented or neglected.

ISA highlighted that unlike in 2022 and 2023, when Attica recorded no human WNV infections despite the virus circulating elsewhere, the current situation is deeply worrying. The association is pushing for a thorough investigation into any potential delays, omissions, or failures in surveillance, prevention, and the execution of measures by responsible agencies. "We need to know what was done and what was not done," stated ISA, emphasizing that full transparency is essential for protecting human life and preventing future outbreaks.

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We need to know what was done and what was not done.

The association is also requesting the release of data pertaining to entomological surveillance, risk assessment, and response actions in Attica. ISA argues that combating WNV cannot be limited to sporadic or reactive spraying. Effective management requires continuous monitoring and pre-defined response protocols. The effectiveness of any program, they contend, depends not just on the number of sprayings, but on when, where, and why they were conducted, and what their outcomes were. ISA questions whether Attica had systematic indicators for monitoring risk and virus circulation, similar to those used in Western Greece, which successfully achieved zero cases.

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The response to the problem is not exhausted by the number of sprayings.