Greece has confirmed its first two deaths from the West Nile virus for the 2024 season, according to the latest weekly report from the Hellenic National Public Health Organization (NPHO).
Both victims were over 78 years old and developed severe neurological complications.
Rising case numbers and hospitalizations of West Nile virus in Greece
As of August 20, a total of 47 locally acquired West Nile virus infections have been reported in Greece. Of these, 41 cases involved severe manifestations affecting the central nervous system, including encephalitis, meningitis, or acute flaccid paralysis. The remaining six cases were either asymptomatic or presented mild symptoms.
In the past week, twelve new domestic cases were diagnosed. Additionally, one imported case was identified in a patient who had been exposed to the virus in Serbia.
Currently, eleven patients remain hospitalized, with two in intensive care units (ICUs) and nine in regular hospital wards. The current status of domestic cases and hospitalizations is as follows:
- Total reported cases: 47
- Total hospitalized patients: 11 (with 9 in non-ICU wards and 2 in intensive care units, or ICUs)
- Not hospitalized: 0
- Discharged from hospital: 34
- Deaths from West Nile virus infection: 2
Geographic distribution of West Nile virus infections
NPHO’s report provides a breakdown of confirmed domestic cases by estimated municipality of exposure. This information serves as a preliminary indicator of the virus’s distribution across various regions.
Underreporting and public health implications
Experts caution that the actual number of WNV infections in Greece is likely higher than reported. A 2010 seroepidemiological study indicated that each confirmed central nervous system-related WNV case corresponds to approximately 140 additional infections, many of which are mild or asymptomatic.
NPHO continues to monitor the situation closely and urges the public to take preventive measures against mosquito bites, especially during the peak transmission period from August to September.
