Greece Records 12 Deaths from West Nile Virus in 2024

As of August 21, 2024, Greece has reported a total of 12 deaths due to West Nile virus infection this year. The deceased patients, all over the age of 60, had a median age of 83 years, with their ages ranging from 61 to 92 years.

In the past week alone, two new deaths and 24 additional domestic cases of the virus have been recorded, according to the National Public Health Organisation (NPHO). Alongside these, three imported cases were identified in individuals who contracted the virus in Albania. These imported cases are not included in the domestic statistics.

So far, Greece has seen 100 confirmed cases of West Nile virus infection this year. Out of these, 76 cases involved serious symptoms affecting the Central Nervous System.

The virus has been detected in various regions across Greece, including Larissa, Karditsa, Lefkada, Halkidiki, Pella, Serres, Kilkis, Imathia, Achaia, Thesprotia, the southern part of Athens, Argolida, Rodopi, Drama, Evros, Xanthi, Fthiotida, and the metropolitan area of Thessaloniki. The NPHO anticipates that additional cases may emerge in the near future.

To manage and control the spread of the virus, the NPHO emphasizes the importance of continued mosquito control programs, personal protection against mosquito bites, and heightened vigilance from health professionals and local authorities.

About West Nile Virus

West Nile virus is primarily spread through mosquito bites. Common symptoms include fever, headache, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash. There are currently no vaccines or specific treatments for the virus, so preventing mosquito bites is crucial to reducing the risk of infection.

The virus is found in various parts of the world and circulates between mosquitoes and birds. Humans become infected when mosquitoes that have bitten infected birds bite them. Unlike birds, humans do not spread the virus to other mosquitoes, making human-to-human transmission rare, though it can occur through blood transfusions, organ transplants, or from mother to baby during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding. Individuals diagnosed with West Nile virus are advised not to donate blood or bone marrow for 120 days after infection.

For more information on how to protect yourself from mosquito bites and reduce the risk of West Nile virus, visit your local health department’s website or consult with healthcare professionals.