West Nile Virus: Outbreak Peak Expected Until October, High-Risk Groups and Symptoms Identified

The spread of West Nile virus in Greece has prompted alarm, with cases rising and extending into October. The Medical Association of Athens has issued a warning as the virus has now reached numerous parts of Attica. Six deaths have been reported, signaling the disease's significant reach and seriousness.

Professor of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine at EKPA, Theodora Psaltopoulou, stated that the peak season for the virus continues until October, predicting further increases in cases. She emphasized that the six fatalities recorded so far are a substantial number, underscoring the virus's widespread transmission and the severity of the illness.

Certain groups are at higher risk, including individuals over 60, those with pre-existing health conditions or compromised immune systems, pregnant women, and children. These vulnerable populations are more susceptible to the virus and its potential complications.

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8 out of 10 people who get infected do not show any symptoms.

Transmission occurs through the bite of an infected mosquito, which has contracted the virus from infected birds. Psaltopoulou advised calm, noting that most infected individuals, about 80%, show no symptoms. Around 20% may experience mild symptoms like fever, headache, and muscle pain. However, approximately 1% can develop severe neurological symptoms, including high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, seizures, loss of consciousness, or paralysis, requiring immediate hospitalization.

Preventive measures include wearing long clothing, especially during dawn and dusk, using mosquito repellents, nets, screens, fans, and air conditioning. These steps are crucial to minimize exposure during the ongoing outbreak.

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1 in 100 can present a more serious picture with high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, or even central nervous system symptoms, such as seizures, loss of consciousness, or paralysis.