West Nile Virus Spreads Rapidly in Greece: 45 New Cases, 9 Deaths Reported

Greek health authorities are on high alert due to a rapid spread of the West Nile virus, reporting 45 new local transmission cases in a single week. This surge brings the total number of infections this season to 110. Tragically, nine people have succumbed to the virus, all of whom were aged over 65.

The National Public Health Organization of Greece (EODY) indicated that the epidemiological situation has worsened considerably in recent weeks. Of the 110 confirmed cases, 81 have exhibited severe neurological symptoms, including encephalitis, meningitis, meningoencephalitis, or acute flaccid paralysis. An additional 29 individuals experienced milder forms of the infection or remained asymptomatic regarding central nervous system involvement.

The victims who died ranged in age from 66 to 91, with a median age of 82. Hospitalizations are also a concern, with 35 patients admitted as of August 12, including 16 in intensive care units. While 61 patients have been discharged, the virus has affected individuals as young as 19.

Authorities caution that the official case count may not reflect the full extent of the virus's circulation. A 2010 study suggests that for every severe neurological case, there could be approximately 140 infected individuals with mild or no symptoms. The Attica region, particularly areas within and around Athens and Piraeus, has seen the most intense virus activity this year, though cases have also been recorded in Thessaly, Central Macedonia, and the Peloponnese.