Croatia reports 15 West Nile virus infections

The Croatian Institute of Public Health (HZJZ) has reported 15 West Nile virus infections in Croatia this year. Of these, 10 individuals developed neuroinvasive forms of the disease, affecting the central nervous system and resulting in hospitalizations. These cases may include conditions such as meningitis or encephalitis.

No deaths have been recorded, and five of the reported infections were asymptomatic. All five asymptomatic cases were identified among voluntary blood donors, a measure taken to protect blood recipients. The reported infections are concentrated in the City of Zagreb and the counties of Zagreb, Krapinsko-zagorska, Osječko-baranjska, and Koprivničko-križevačka.

The HZJZ notes that the majority of those affected are older males, which is typical for this infection. While there has been an increase in reported cases compared to the same period last year, health officials describe the epidemiological situation as normal for this time of year, citing high seasonal variability. Further cases are expected depending on weather conditions that influence mosquito activity.