Greece has recorded 65 locally acquired cases of West Nile virus infections since the start of the 2026 transmission season, with six deaths reported, health authorities said on Thursday.

The National Public Health Organisation (EODY), in its latest weekly epidemiological surveillance report, said 23 new cases were recorded in the past week, indicating a rise in infections.

It said 54 patients developed central nervous system (CNS) complications, including encephalitis, meningitis and acute flaccid paralysis, while 11 others experienced mild symptoms or no CNS involvement.

According to the report, all six deaths recorded were among persons above 65 years who had developed CNS complications, with the median age of the victims at 79 years.

The EODY said the infections had been detected in 25 municipalities across 10 regional units in Attica, Thessaly and Central Macedonia.

It noted that Attica, the region hosting the capital, Athens, had recorded the highest spread of the disease.

West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne disease that remains a recurring public health challenge in Greece, with cases commonly reported during the peak mosquito season between May and November. 

(Xinhua/NAN)