Germany reports seven local West Nile virus infections

The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) has reported that seven people in Germany have been locally infected with the West Nile virus in 2026. The infected individuals, aged between 28 and 83, were likely contracted the virus in Baden-Württemberg, Rhineland-Palatinate, Berlin, Saxony, or Saxony-Anhalt.

In addition to these local cases, ten other German residents were recorded having contracted the virus abroad. As of October 26, no deaths have been reported in Germany due to the virus this year.

The virus is primarily transmitted from wild birds to humans and other mammals via mosquitoes, specifically the native Culex species in Germany. Experts suggest that case numbers may rise due to climate change. Across Europe, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has reported 1,965 cases as of October 23.