West Nile virus claims first Romanian death as three cases confirmed

Romanian health authorities have confirmed three West Nile virus infections in the counties of Argeș, Iași and Suceava between early June and mid‑July 2026. One patient, aged between 20 and 29, died, while two older patients (70‑79 years) were hospitalized.

The National Institute of Public Health warned that rising summer temperatures and recent heavy rains could boost mosquito activity, leading to more cases. The virus is transmitted by mosquito bites and can cause fever, severe headache, muscle pain, and, in less than 1% of infections, neuroinvasive disease such as meningitis or encephalitis.

Officials urged anyone bitten by mosquitoes who develops symptoms to seek medical evaluation promptly.