File photo.
Greece is seeing its most intense West Nile virus activity in the Attica region this year, health officials say.
Of 21 infections recorded nationwide since early summer, 19 came from Attica and two from Thessaly, according to the National Public Health Organization (EODY).
Affected areas include Vari-Voula-Vouliagmeni, Koropi-Lavreotiki, Markopoulo, Pallini, Spata, Halandri, Athens and Glyfada. Thirteen patients were hospitalized as of Tuesday, three in intensive care. EODY flagged seven more municipalities, including Marousi and Rafina, as high-risk. Cases in Attica were rare before 2024.
The European Center for Disease Prevention and Control reported West Nile cases in Italy, North Macedonia, Romania and Spain through July 15, warning climate conditions favor spread. Greece’s blood service now tests donations from affected regions and bars donors for 28 days.
