241 confirmed West Nile infections reported across Europe this season
ECDC weekly update lists 241 cases in Europe this season, with Italy and Greece reporting the highest numbers.
More than 240 people across Europe have been confirmed infected with West Nile virus so far this year, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) reported in its weekly bulletin published on Friday. A total of 241 cases were recorded from the start of the transmission season up to Wednesday.
By country, Italy accounts for the largest share with 139 cases, followed by Greece with 61. Spain has reported 17 infections, North Macedonia 13, Romania six, France four and Germany one.
How the virus spreads and who is at risk
The World Health Organization (WHO) urged heightened vigilance at the end of last month after several cases were notified in southern Europe. West Nile virus is typically transmitted between birds and mosquitoes; infected mosquitoes can then bite and infect people, most commonly between July and September. Most infected people are not even aware they have the virus, the agency warned.
According to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), the German agency for disease control and prevention, many infections probably go unreported because most people experience no or only mild symptoms. In severe instances the disease can affect the nervous system and cause conditions such as encephalitis and meningitis.
There is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for West Nile virus; clinicians can only treat the symptoms. WHO recommends that travellers reduce their risk of mosquito bites by wearing appropriate clothing and using insect repellents.
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