Europe records more than 1,000 locally acquired West Nile virus cases

Saturday 05 September 2026 - 11:47

By: Azzat Manal

Europe records more than 1,000 locally acquired West Nile virus cases

European health authorities have reported more than 1,000 locally acquired cases of West Nile virus since the beginning of the current transmission season, highlighting the continued spread of the mosquito-borne disease across several European countries.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control reported 1,086 locally acquired infections across 15 European countries as of September 3. The number has increased sharply in recent weeks, rising from just 241 cases reported across seven countries at the beginning of August.

Italy has recorded the highest number of infections, with 516 cases, followed by Greece with 284 and Spain with 88. Overall, the virus has been detected in 144 European areas, including 62 areas in Italy.

Health authorities have warned that reported figures may not fully reflect the actual extent of transmission, as surveillance systems and detection rates can vary between countries and regions.

West Nile virus is primarily maintained in a natural cycle involving wild birds and mosquitoes. Infected mosquitoes can subsequently transmit the virus to humans through bites. Most infected people may experience no symptoms or develop relatively mild illness, although the infection can occasionally lead to serious neurological complications.

The rise in locally acquired cases comes during the European mosquito season, when warmer conditions can favor the circulation of mosquito-borne diseases. Public health authorities continue to monitor transmission patterns and advise people in affected areas to reduce exposure to mosquito bites.

The latest figures underline the importance of surveillance and prevention measures as European countries face the growing presence of mosquito-borne infections. Continued monitoring will be essential to assess how the current transmission season develops in the coming weeks.