The presence of the West Nile virus in our country was particularly high this summer. Newer data published by the European Center for Disease Control and Prevention (ECDC), although they cover the period up to July 31, show that the circulation of infected mosquitoes was intense in our country.
In particular, from the start of the 2024 West Nile virus surveillance until the end of July, eight countries in Europe reported 69 domestic cases of infection with the virus.
Based on ECDC data, 59% of cases this year involved people over 65
The first and last date of occurrence of cases were respectively 1 March 2024 and 25 July 2024. Domestic cases were reported from Greece (31), Italy (25), Spain (5), Austria (2), Hungary (2), Serbia (2), France (1) and Romania (1). During the same period, in Europe, 8 deaths were reported from Greece (5), Italy (2) and Spain (1).
Further increase in August
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It is worth noting that since then the numbers have changed and the activity of the virus in Greece increased in August. According to the latest epidemiological report of the National Public Health Organization (EODY), up to 4/9 a total of 140 cases of West Nile virus infection and 17 deaths were recorded.
The dangerous ages
Based on ECDC data, 59% of cases this year involved people over 65, close to the previous decade’s average (54%) for the same period. Hospitalization rates were similar, with 91% of cases being hospitalized this year compared to 94% a decade earlier. Mortality this year stands at 13% (through July 31), similar to the 11% seen in the previous decade.
All of the deaths reported this year involved people over the age of 65, as in previous years, when the majority of deaths also involved older people. Neurological manifestations were reported in 75% of cases this year, compared with 65% in the previous decade.
ECDC has recorded travel-related cases. Countries outside the European Union – European Economic Area (EU/EEA) linked to travel cases include Albania, India, Kenya, Morocco, Oman, Tunisia, the United Arab Emirates and the United States.
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ECDC West Nile
The West Nile Virus: A Growing Concern in Europe
As we approach the end of the summer season, the European Center for Disease Control and Prevention (ECDC) has released alarming data on the spread of the West Nile virus in Europe. The latest reports indicate that the circulation of infected mosquitoes has been intense, particularly in Greece, Italy, and Spain, with a significant number of cases reported in other European countries as well.
Surveillance and Disease Data
According to the ECDC’s surveillance and disease data, which is updated weekly during the transmission season (usually between June and November) [[1]], eight countries in Europe reported 69 domestic cases of West Nile virus infection from the start of the surveillance period until the end of July 2024. The affected countries include Greece (31 cases), Italy (25 cases), Spain (5 cases), Austria (2 cases), Hungary (2 cases), Serbia (2 cases), France (1 case), and Romania (1 case) [[2]].
The Age Factor
The ECDC’s data reveals that 59% of cases this year involved people over 65, which is close to the previous decade’s average of 54% for the same period [[2]]. Furthermore, hospitalization rates were similar, with 91% of cases being hospitalized this year compared to 94% a decade earlier. The mortality rate this year stands at 13% (through July 31), similar to the 11% seen in the previous decade.
Travel-Related Cases
In addition to domestic cases, the ECDC has also recorded travel-related cases of West Nile virus infection. Countries outside the European Union – European Economic Area (EU/EEA) linked to travel cases include Albania, India, Kenya, Morocco, Oman, Tunisia, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States [[2]].
Further Increase in August
According to the latest epidemiological report of the National Public Health Organization (EODY), the activity of the virus in Greece increased in August, with a total of 140 cases of West Nile virus infection and 17 deaths recorded up to September 4 [[3]].
The Importance of Vigilance
The West Nile virus is a significant public health concern, particularly for older adults and those with weakened immune systems. It is essential for individuals to take preventive measures, such as avoiding mosquito bites and wearing protective clothing, to reduce the risk of infection.
the West Nile virus has had a significant impact on Europe this summer, with a high number of reported cases and deaths. It is crucial for individuals, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to remain vigilant and take necessary steps to prevent the spread of this disease.
References:
ECDC West Nile
The West Nile Virus: A Growing Concern in Europe
As we approach the end of the summer season, the European Center for Disease Control and Prevention (ECDC) has released alarming data on the spread of the West Nile virus in Europe. The latest reports indicate that the circulation of infected mosquitoes has been intense, particularly in Greece, Italy, and Spain, with a significant number of cases reported in other European countries as well.
