Greece is battling its most severe West Nile virus outbreak in recent years. According to the National Public Health Organization (EODY), 290 locally acquired cases have been confirmed since the start of the 2026 transmission season, with 58 new infections reported in the last week alone. Tragically, 24 people have died — all aged over 65, with a median age of 83. Of the total cases, 199 (nearly 69%) involved serious neurological complications including encephalitis, meningitis, and acute flaccid paralysis. As of September 2, 63 patients remained hospitalized, including 32 in intensive care. The hardest-hit areas are in eastern Attica and the northern suburbs of Athens, which account for roughly half of all recorded infections. Health authorities warn that September traditionally marks the peak of virus transmission and expect further cases in the coming weeks. On the island of Crete, three cases were confirmed in the regional units of Rethymno and Heraklion, prompting EODY to classify the popular tourist municipality of Hersonissos as a “high-risk” zone — a precautionary designation based on proximity to affected areas and historical infection patterns. The virus spreads through infected mosquito bites, and experts recommend using repellent, wearing long sleeves in the evening, and keeping windows screened.
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