West Nile virus warning for Greece as summer mosquitoes rise

The West Nile virus is transmitted primarily through the bite of infected mosquitoes and becomes more prevalent during the warmer months when mosquito activity increases. In most cases the infection causes no symptoms, but some individuals develop flu‑like signs such as fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, severe fatigue, vomiting or rash.

A small proportion of cases progress to serious neurological disease, including meningitis, encephalitis or acute flaccid paralysis. Older adults and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk. No specific treatment or vaccine exists; prevention focuses on avoiding mosquito bites and eliminating breeding sites, and on seeking immediate medical care if warning signs such as high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, confusion, weakness or vision changes appear.