16.08.2026 17:50
While West Nile virus cases in Greece have been rapidly increasing since the first months of the year, 110 cases were recorded as of August 12. Central nervous system findings were observed in 81 of the cases, and experts warned that if the current increase continues, 2026 could be one of the heaviest periods in recent years.
It has been reported that West Nile virus cases in Greece are increasing rapidly this year, and if the current trend continues, 2026 could be one of the most challenging periods in recent years.
110 CASES DETECTED
Data from the Greek National Public Health Organization (EODY) indicated that 110 West Nile virus cases had been recorded in the country by August 12.
It was noted that 81 of the cases showed central nervous system findings, while 29 people experienced the disease with mild symptoms, and it was reported that the cases were detected in 39 municipalities in the regions of Attica, Thessaly, Central Macedonia, and the Peloponnese.
THE MILD WINTER PLAYED A BIG ROLE
Danai Pervanidu, an official from the EODY Directorate for Epidemiological Surveillance and Prevention of Infectious Diseases, stated that the virus has spread intensely this year, especially in Attica, and that the number of cases has exceeded the levels recorded in previous years during the same period.
Pointing out that many factors such as temperature and rainfall, as well as the mosquito population and bird migration routes, are effective in the spread of the virus, Pervanidu noted that the winter of 2025-2026 in Attica being the second warmest winter in the last 150 years may have also contributed to the current situation.
“COULD BE THE MOST CHALLENGING PERIOD IN RECENT YEARS”
Pervanidu stated that there is no scientific evidence indicating that the virus has become more contagious or that its behavior has changed compared to previous periods.
Pervanidu warned that if the increase in the number of cases continues at the same pace, 2026 could be one of the most challenging periods in recent years in terms of the number of cases recorded.
WARNING TO CITIZENS
EODY called on citizens to use mosquito repellent, make use of screens and mosquito nets in homes, prefer long clothing, especially in the evening hours, and eliminate stagnant water puddles where mosquitoes can breed.
According to data from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, Greece is the second country in Europe after Italy with the highest number of West Nile virus cases detected.