First West Nile Virus Case Detected in Lazio, Italy

Italy's Lazio region confirmed its first 2026 case of West Nile virus in a 29‑year‑old man from the province of Latina. The patient, who experienced mild symptoms, has been discharged from the Goretti Hospital.

The detection was made by the regional surveillance system, which officials say demonstrates the effectiveness of recent enhancements in monitoring and diagnostic capacity. Fabrizio Maggi, director of the Department of Epidemiology at INMI Spallanzani, noted that the system’s quick identification allows public‑health measures to be activated promptly.

West Nile virus, carried by Culex mosquitoes and maintained in wild bird populations, is not transmitted directly between people. In Italy the virus has expanded, with 773 confirmed cases in 2025 compared with 332 in 2023. Only about 20 % of infections produce symptoms; roughly 1 % develop severe neurological complications, primarily affecting older or immunocompromised individuals.

Health authorities advise the public to use insect repellents and be vigilant, especially near standing water where mosquitoes breed. A recent training course on arboviruses at the Spallanzani Institute highlighted the growing need for awareness and rapid response.