Greece reports 58 new West Nile virus cases; five deaths in one week

Greece recorded 58 new West Nile virus infections this week, and five people died during the same seven-day period, health authorities reported — bringing the total number of diagnosed and notified cases since the start of this virus season to 290, with 24 registered deaths.

Of the total diagnosed, 199 patients presented with central nervous system symptoms (encephalitis and/or meningitis and/or acute paralysis), while 91 cases were mild or showed no central nervous system involvement.

Hospital admissions and case disposition

Among those infected, 63 people were hospitalized, 182 patients have been discharged from hospital care, and 21 cases did not require hospitalization.

All 24 fatal cases were aged over 65, with an average age of 83.

Geographically, more than half of the infections (163 cases) were registered in the Attica region around Athens. Other cases have been reported in Thessaly, in northern and central Greece, on the Peloponnese and on Crete; 14 cases remain under epidemiological investigation.

According to the Hellenic National Public Health Organization (EODY), during 2026, up to yesterday, West Nile virus infections have been registered in 69 municipalities and in 20 regional units across the country.

Separately, a related report notes: "Seventh deceased patient with West Nile fever – the latest suspected case is from Radishani."

Photo: press material from the event