Greece has sadly reported its first deaths from the West Nile virus this year, with two elderly patients losing their battle against this mosquito-borne illness, as confirmed by health officials on Thursday, according to DPA.
Both individuals were over 78 years old and had infections affecting their central nervous system due to the virus, as stated by the Greek National Public Health Organization. As of August 20, the country had documented 47 confirmed cases, with 11 patients currently hospitalized, including two in intensive care.
Authorities are cautioning that the actual number of infections could be much higher, as many people may not show any symptoms or only experience mild ones like headaches or muscle aches. Severe illness, which often comes with high fever and neurological issues, tends to be more prevalent among older adults and those with existing health problems.
Most of the confirmed cases so far have been found in rural areas near Athens and in central Greece. The virus, which was first identified in Africa, is spread by certain types of mosquitoes. Health officials are advising residents to use repellents and, whenever possible, to set up mosquito nets over their beds to minimize exposure.
