11.08.2026 16:10
As West Nile virus cases rapidly increase in Greece, the country has become the second most affected in Europe after Italy. From the start of the year to August 5, 65 cases have been detected, and 6 people over the age of 65 have died. Experts have noted that humidity and stagnant water are contributing factors to the increase, particularly in and around Athens.
The rapid increase in West Nile virus cases in Greece is causing concern.
HUMIDITY TRIGGERS VIRUS IN ATHENS AND SURROUNDINGS
Professor Theodoros Vasilakopulos, President of the Greek National Public Health Organization (EODY) and a Pulmonology Specialist, assessed the country's West Nile virus situation on Mega TV. Reminding that the virus has been endemic in Greece since 2010, Vasilakopulos stated that the disease is transmitted to humans through mosquitoes infected by wild birds. Drawing attention to the outbreak of cases in the Attica region, which includes the capital Athens, the expert emphasized that this situation is caused by meteorological conditions such as increased humidity and stagnant water.
ECOSYSTEM CONCERNS LIMIT SPRAYING
Prof. Dr. Vasilakopulos, underlining that completely eliminating mosquitoes is not possible for ecological balance, also touched upon the difficulties in control methods. Noting that intensive chemicals cannot be used during spraying operations in the breeding season due to concerns about harming other organisms, Vasilakopulos said, "Therefore, the proliferation of mosquitoes depends somewhat on weather and climate conditions." Stating that a special protocol is activated when any case is detected and that the area is immediately sprayed, the EODY President made a critical warning to citizens to use mosquito repellent spray, especially when going out in the evening hours.
THE TOLL WORSENS: 6 PEOPLE HAVE DIED
According to data from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, Greece is currently the second country in Europe with the highest number of West Nile virus cases, after Italy. According to the latest data announced by EODY; 65 cases were detected in the country between the beginning of the year and August 5, and 6 people over the age of 65 died due to the virus. The severity of the picture becomes clearer when compared with last year's data. Indeed, by August of last year, only 35 cases had been seen in Greece; while a total of 96 cases were detected throughout the year, 10 people lost their lives.