Since the start of the year, Greece has registered 324 cases of West Nile virus infection — the highest number ever recorded in the country. Thirty people have died as a result of the disease, Greece’s National Public Health Organisation said.
eKathimerini reports, citing Greece’s National Public Health Organisation.
Over the past week, 34 new infections were identified in the country, and the number of deaths rose by six — to 30.
In 217 patients, the illness caused complications affecting the central nervous system, including encephalitis or meningitis.
According to the latest data, 68 patients are in hospital, including 32 in intensive care units.
Cases have been detected in 73 municipalities across 22 regional units in Greece. The highest number of cases is in the Attica region, which includes Athens — 56.8% of the total.
Experts suggest the true number of infections may be significantly higher. This is because severe illness develops in fewer than 1% of people infected with the virus.
At the same time, Greek health authorities believe the peak of the current outbreak has already passed. However, new cases may emerge both in areas already affected and in other parts of the country.
West Nile virus is transmitted mainly through the bites of infected mosquitoes.
Most people have no symptoms after infection or experience a mild form of the illness. Older people and those with weakened immune systems are at the highest risk of severe disease.