Greece: Increase in West Nile virus activity reported in Central Macedonia since Sept. 27 /update 1

Event

Health officials have reported an additional 194 cases of West Nile virus (WNV) in Greece Aug. 17-Sept. 27, bringing the total to 254 cases since Jan. 1. Only 54 cases were reported over a similar period in 2021, 125 cases in 2020, and 213 cases in 2019. The most affected area is Thessaloniki (98 cases), followed by Larissa (30 cases), Imathia (25 cases), and Halkidiki (15 cases). This is the most updated information as of Sept. 28.

Context

Greece reported 311 human WNV cases during all of 2018 and 47 cases in 2017. The majority of WNV cases in the country are reported June-November.

West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most infected people develop no symptoms. However, approximately 20 percent of the infected develop febrile illness characterized by symptoms of fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash. Fewer than 1 percent of infected individuals develop serious neurologic illness, which can be life-threatening. Symptoms typically appear 2-6 days after being bitten but can develop up to 14 days after exposure.

Advice

Avoid mosquito bites and remove standing water to reduce the number of biting mosquitoes. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop within two weeks of being in affected areas.