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Europe registers more than 1,000 local cases of West Nile virus

The West Nile virus is spreading rapidly across Europe, with 1,086 confirmed cases this year, according to data from the ECDC.

5 September 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Archive photo: Europe registers more than 1,000 local cases of West Nile virus — Archive photoPhoto: Roobodje · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has reported that the number of locally confirmed cases of the West Nile virus in Europe has risen to 1,086. This is an increase from 241 cases recorded in early August, indicating a significant rise in infections.

The cases have been reported in fifteen different countries across Europe. The ECDC emphasizes that these figures only pertain to individuals infected within Europe; those infected outside of Europe are not included in these statistics.

The majority of cases have been reported in Italy, where 516 cases have been confirmed. This country now tops the list of affected areas. Furthermore, there have also been reports of infections in other European countries, but the details of these cases have not been fully specified in the ECDC reports.

The ECDC has advised that people should be aware of the risks posed by the West Nile virus, especially during the months when mosquitoes are active. The spread of the virus primarily occurs through mosquito bites, which increases the risk during the mosquito season.

Additionally, it is important to note that the West Nile virus can cause severe illness in some cases. Health authorities in Europe remain vigilant regarding further developments and the spread of the virus in the coming months.

The increase in West Nile virus infections also raises questions about the effectiveness of existing prevention measures and the need for additional public communication regarding the risks of infection.

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