The first fatal case of West Nile virus infection was registered in the Serres regional unit (Greece) this year.
It concerns a 75-year-old man with underlying health conditions, a resident of the city of Serres. The virus is transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes, which in turn are infected by infected birds. As is particularly emphasized, vulnerable groups of the population are at greater risk.
The virus is not transmitted from infected people to other people. Most people who become infected do not experience serious symptoms, but some develop a severe illness that affects the nervous system. People over 50 and those with weakened immune systems and chronic illnesses are at greatest risk of serious consequences.
West Nile fever (WNV) is a mosquito-borne viral disease that can cause mild symptoms or serious neurological disease. Statistics for recent years:
• 2022: 286 cases of West Nile virus infection were registered in Greece. Of these, 184 were accompanied by neurological manifestations (encephalitis, meningitis, etc.) and 102 had mild symptoms. There were 33 deaths among patients with neurological manifestations.
• 2021: Greece has registered 57 cases of infection, of which 10 were fatal.
• 2020: 28 cases of infection registered.
• 2019: 49 cases of infection were registered.
In 2024, Greece has registered 60 cases of West Nile virus infection, from the beginning of the year to mid-August. The most affected regions are Thessaloniki (33 cases), Imathia (12 cases) and Chalkidiki (5 cases).
More Stories
It was only by a miracle that a scandal was avoided at the wedding
Kids and Gadgets: How Excessive Use Affects Language Skills
What does the golden ribbon lighting on the Greek Parliament mean?