In Greece, the number of people infected with West Nile fever after mosquito bites has quadrupled in less than a month. Since the beginning of the year, 157 infections and 13 deaths have been registered there.
In Greece, the number of people infected with the virus that causes West Nile fever continues to rise. Since the beginning of the year, 157 cases have been registered nationwide, and according to the EODY health service, 13 people have died as a result of the infection. This represents a fourfold increase in the number of cases within a few weeks. For comparison: at the end of July, there were 42 registered cases.
In addition to Greece, Italy, Spain and North Macedonia are most affected. Several cases have also been registered in Germany, reports ARD.
How to protect yourself?
The World Health Organization (WHO) called for increased vigilance back in July. For most people, however, the infection is asymptomatic: around 80 percent of those infected do not experience any symptoms. Less than one percent develop a serious disease of the central nervous system, such as meningitis.
The virus is transmitted by mosquitoes. Epidemiologist and professor at the University of Athens Gkikas Maggiorkinis called on Greek television ERT to use mosquito repellents. The "Robert Koch" Institute advises using repellents, clothing that covers the body and mosquito nets on windows in areas with a high concentration of mosquitoes. The elderly and those with chronic diseases should be especially protected.