The West Nile virus is spreading rapidly across Greece, with several municipalities reporting their first confirmed cases. In Attica and surrounding regions, transmission has intensified significantly, and new infections have been identified in the municipalities of Filothei-Psychiko and Pagrati-Cholargos — marking the initial local outbreaks in those areas.
First Case on Crete Sends Elderly Patient to ICU
The island of Crete has recorded its first case: a 75-year-old man currently hospitalized in an intensive care unit (ICU). Health authorities are closely monitoring his condition amid growing concern over the virus’s geographic expansion.
Experts Warn of Continued Rise Through Late August
Epidemiologists anticipate the upward trend in cases will persist through the end of August. They urge heightened vigilance — especially among vulnerable population groups — and stress the importance of personal protective measures against mosquito bites, particularly during late afternoon and evening hours when the primary vector, Culex mosquitoes, are most active.
Symptoms and Incubation Period
After being bitten by an infected mosquito, the incubation period for West Nile virus typically ranges from two to six days. Early symptoms may include fever, headache, and muscle pain. In some cases — particularly among older adults or those with underlying health conditions — neurological complications affecting the central nervous system (CNS) can develop later.
Higher Risk Groups
A 12-year U.S. study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that men appear more likely than women to develop severe illness following infection. Additional high-risk categories include individuals with pre-existing medical conditions such as multiple sclerosis, alcohol-related disorders, immunosuppressive therapy, hematologic malignancies, stroke history, chronic kidney disease, and hypertension.
It is important to note that the virus is not transmitted from person to person. In most cases — approximately 80% — infected individuals remain asymptomatic. When symptoms do occur, they are usually mild and flu-like. Public health officials emphasize that the recent rise in reported cases reflects, in part, improved surveillance and earlier diagnosis — not necessarily a sudden spike in transmission alone.