West Nile virus blood safety measures in Europe

Following the detection of the West Nile virus, health authorities in Belgium and Romania have implemented measures to protect blood transfusion recipients.

In Flanders, Red Cross Flanders began extra testing of certain blood donations on August 17, 2026, following recommendations from the Federal Agency for Medicines and Health Products. This precautionary step follows the identification of the virus in animals, including a horse in Vilvoorde and cases near Mechelen. Health officials noted that while most infections are asymptomatic, complications like meningitis can occur, and they have advised residents in several municipalities to use mosquito repellents.

In Romania, the Timișoara Regional Blood Transfusion Center has imposed temporary restrictions on donors. Individuals who have traveled to specific Romanian regions or several European countries—including Italy, Serbia, Greece, and Germany—and have experienced mosquito bites are ineligible to donate for 28 days. Meanwhile, local organizations in Botoșani are organizing donation campaigns to ensure hospital supplies remain stable for surgeries and emergencies.