West Nile Virus: Rapid Test with One Drop of Blood Developed as Athens Faces Increased Cases

Greece is grappling with a significant surge in West Nile Virus cases, with 232 infections and 19 fatalities reported as of August 26. The last week alone saw 75 new cases, highlighting the virus's rapid spread. Of the 73 patients currently hospitalized, 26 are in intensive care units, and one is in an advanced care unit.

Alarmingly, a 13-year-old child has become the first minor this year to require hospitalization due to severe illness. The child, belonging to a vulnerable group, presented with central nervous system symptoms. This situation has placed health and local authorities on high alert.

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We aim to have a test that with one drop of blood, in less than an hour, we can have the result.

Cases have been detected across 61 municipalities, 18 regional units, and five regions, with Attica showing the highest prevalence, affecting 37 municipalities. Central Macedonia follows with 12 municipalities, then Thessaly with nine, Stereá Elláda with two, and Peloponnese with one.

In parallel, a research team from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (EKPA) is developing a rapid diagnostic test. This innovative test aims to detect the virus using a single drop of blood, providing results in under an hour. This could significantly expedite the diagnostic process.

The research involves teams from Greece, Italy, Spain, Estonia, the Netherlands, and Brazil. Professor Maria Gazouli, head of the EKPA's Biology, Genetics, and Nanomedicine department, represents the Greek research group. She stated, "We aim to have a test that with one drop of blood, in less than an hour, we can have the result."

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This year is potentially the most intense we have ever had since 2010.

Meanwhile, the National Public Health Organization (EODY) warns that this year might be the most intense since 2010. Danai Pervanidou, head of EODY's Vector-Borne Diseases Department, described the current epidemiological situation as particularly concerning. "This year is potentially the most intense we have ever had since 2010," she stated. The number of cases has already surpassed previous records for this period, and if transmission rates are not curbed, 2026 could become a record year.

Pervanidou also noted that the epidemic curve has not yet peaked, with the apex expected in early September. "Unfortunately, the peak is ahead of us, until early September. For at least the next month and a half, we will be recording cases," she added. In response, the Attica Region is intensifying mosquito control measures, planning a large-scale ground spraying operation in Eastern Attica tonight, covering approximately 10,000 acres.

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Unfortunately, the peak is ahead of us, until early September. For at least the next month and a half, we will be recording cases.