Serbia reports zero human West Nile virus cases as surveillance continues

The Institute for Public Health of Serbia "Dr Milan Jovanović Batut" announced that, as of 22 June 2026, no confirmed human cases of West Nile virus infection have been recorded in Serbia. Seasonal enhanced surveillance began on 1 June, aiming to monitor epidemiological, clinical and virological features, track geographic spread and identify high‑risk populations.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control notes that the transmission season is underway across Europe, with three locally acquired cases reported by 17 June 2026 – two in Italy and one in North Macedonia. In Serbia, the main mosquito vector is *Culex pipiens*.

West Nile fever is usually asymptomatic (80‑90 %); 10‑20 % develop flu‑like illness, and less than 1 % progress to severe neuro‑invasive disease such as meningitis or encephalitis. The institute advises personal protection measures: use insect repellent, wear long‑sleeved clothing, avoid outdoor activity at dusk and dawn, install window screens, and eliminate standing water to reduce mosquito breeding.

Surveillance of West Nile virus in Serbia has been mandatory since 2012, and the current monitoring aims to ensure early detection should cases emerge later in the summer months.