A total of 12 deaths in patients with West Nile virus infection have been recorded from the beginning of the year until August 21, aged over 60 years (median age of deceased = 83 years, range 61 - 92 years).
During last week, two deaths were recorded and 24 new domestic cases were diagnosed/declared, according to the National Public Health Organisation (NPHO) epidemiological report. Three imported cases of the infection in patients exposed to another foreign country (Albania) have also been recorded, which are not included in the further analysis.
A total of 100 domestic cases of West Nile virus infection have been diagnosed and investigated in Greece, of which 76 cases presented manifestations from the Central Nervous System.
This year and until August 21, cases of West Nile virus infection have been recorded in Greece, in areas in the Regional Units of Larissa, Karditsa, Lefkada, Halkidiki, Pella, Serres, Kilkis, Imathia, Achaia, Thesprotia, south sector of Athens , Argolida, Rodopi, Drama, Evros, Xanthi, Fthiotida and in the metropolitan unit of Thessaloniki. NPHO considers possible the diagnosis of further cases in the coming period.
Epidemiological surveillance of the disease, the timely implementation of appropriate integrated mosquito control programs and the adoption of personal protection measures against mosquitoes are the most appropriate measures to control the disease. In this context, the vigilance of health professionals and the continued vigilance of local and national authorities are deemed necessary.
