Greece is facing a West Nile virus surge, with experts warning that the true number of infections could significantly exceed official figures.
Greek health authorities had recorded 157 locally acquired cases and 13 deaths by August 19, according to the National Public Health Organization (EODY). Authorities recorded 47 infections and four deaths in just one week.
Attica remains one of the most affected regions, with cases reported across 31 municipalities. Eastern Attica has drawn particular concern as hospitals continue to send large numbers of samples for laboratory testing.
Greece’s West Nile virus surge could be far higher than official case count
Gkikas Magiorkinis, professor of hygiene and epidemiology at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, said confirmed cases probably represent only a fraction of the infections circulating in Greece.
He estimated that the true number could be at least 10 times higher, and possibly more, because many people who contract West Nile virus experience mild symptoms or no symptoms at all.
Many of them never seek medical care or undergo testing, so health authorities do not include their infections in official surveillance figures.
EODY has described virus circulation during the 2026 transmission season as particularly intense and says case numbers have surpassed those recorded at the same point in previous years.
Attica among the areas most affected
Professor Athanasios Tsakris, a microbiologist at the University of Athens Medical School, said hospitals continue to submit a substantial number of samples for testing, particularly from eastern Attica. Laboratories have also identified a significant number of positive samples.
Weather conditions favorable to mosquito breeding may have contributed to larger mosquito populations and increased transmission.
As of August 19, hospitals were treating 42 patients with West Nile virus across Greece. Twenty-three of them required intensive care or treatment in high-dependency units.
What are the symptoms of West Nile virus?
Infected mosquitoes transmit West Nile virus to humans through their bites.
Most people who contract the virus develop no symptoms. Others may experience fever, headache, fatigue and muscle aches within several days of infection.
In a small number of cases, the virus can affect the central nervous system and cause severe neurological illness.
Older adults and people with conditions such as chronic kidney disease, hypertension, blood cancers, a history of stroke or weakened immune systems face a higher risk of serious complications.
Greece’s west nile virus surge prompts mosquito precautions
Greek health authorities have urged residents to take precautions as they expect West Nile virus activity to continue through the transmission season.
EODY recommends using approved insect repellent, fitting screens to windows and doors, wearing clothing that limits exposed skin and removing standing water from balconies, yards and gardens.
Because many infections never reach official statistics, avoiding mosquito bites remains the most effective way for individuals to reduce their risk of contracting the virus.
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