Greece reports first influenza death and rising West Nile virus cases

The National Public Health Organization (EODY) reported significant epidemiological updates for the week of September 21–27, 2026. The country recorded its first laboratory-confirmed influenza death of the season, alongside 15 new hospitalizations.

West Nile virus activity remains a major concern, with 27 new cases and five deaths reported during this period. For the year 2026, there have been a total of 423 domestic cases and 41 deaths, primarily among individuals over the age of 60. Of the total cases this year, 271 patients presented with central nervous system complications, such as encephalitis or meningitis. Several municipalities across Greece, including areas in Athens, Thessaloniki, Crete, and Pieria, have been designated as high-risk zones for transmission.

Regarding COVID-19, there is an upward trend in activity. New hospitalizations rose to 47, compared to 35 the previous week, though positivity rates and ICU admissions remain low. Meanwhile, the circulation of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) remains at very low levels, with no positive samples detected in recent community or clinical surveillance.