Farsala municipality added to West Nile virus surveillance list

The Municipality of Farsala has been officially added to the list of areas under increased surveillance following a confirmed human case of West Nile virus. This development, reported by the National Public Health Organization (EODY) and the National Blood Center (EKEA), makes Farsala the fourth municipality in the Larissa regional unit to be placed under heightened monitoring, joining Larissa, Tempi, and Kilkis.

Strict prevention protocols have been activated to protect blood supplies. All blood units from donors residing or working in Farsala must undergo mandatory molecular testing (NAT). Additionally, blood, plasma, and platelet stocks collected since August 6 have been retroactively reserved. Individuals who have stayed overnight in affected areas may face a temporary 28-day deferral from blood donation if molecular testing cannot be performed.

In the Thessaly region, 29 cases have been recorded to date, with 23 located within the Larissa regional unit. While the current rate of infection appears lower than the same period last year, health officials noted that a full comparative assessment will not be possible until the transmission period concludes in November. Most patients typically require two to three days of hospitalization before being discharged.