A total of 232 West Nile virus cases have been recorded in Greece since the beginning of 2026, most of them in recent weeks. By comparison, 96 cases were recorded throughout 2025.
So far this year, 19 patients have died, all of them over the age of 65, according to a report released yesterday by Greece’s National Public Health Organization, EODY. Another 73 patients are currently hospitalised, including 26 in intensive care.
Over the past week, the first case involving a minor was recorded. The 13 year old developed severe symptoms and required hospitalisation.
West Nile virus is mainly transmitted through the bite of infected common mosquitoes and does not spread from person to person.
The highest concentration of new cases has been recorded in municipalities in eastern Attica. Areas classified as “high risk” include Nea Smyrni, Nea Filadelfeia, Dafni, Amfipoli in Serres and Thasos.
No human cases have been recorded so far in the municipalities classified as “high risk.” However, these areas have a combination of factors associated with an increased risk of transmission, including proximity to affected municipalities, geographical conditions and current and historical epidemiological data.
West Nile virus is mainly transmitted through the bite of infected common mosquitoes and does not spread from person to person. Most people develop no symptoms or only mild illness. In some cases, particularly among older people, the virus can severely affect the central nervous system, causing conditions such as encephalitis or meningitis.
Source: Kathimerini
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