After an unusually high number of flu cases this season EODI warns that cases of West Nile virus have increased recently.

In total this year, as of August 31, 146 cases of West Nile virus infection have been diagnosed in the country.

The vast majority of cases (134) were identified in the Central Macedonia region, nine (9) in the Thessaly region, and three (3) cases are under investigation.

According to EODY, the current period of 2022 is characterized by particularly intense virus activity, with an increased number of cases reported in the above areas. As we are at the peak of the seasonal outbreak of the virus, more incidents are expected in the country, as well as in other European countries, in the near future.

Precautionary measures

For this reason, EODY once again recommends that citizens take precautions against mosquito bites with particular consistency.

At the same time, strict adherence to personal protection measures against mosquitoes is recommended in the wider areas where cases have been recorded in the current period, as well as throughout the territory (given the unpredictable circulation of the virus):

• Use approved body and environmental insect repellents, nets, mosquito nets, air conditioners/fans, suitable (long) clothing.
• Do not leave standing water anywhere.
• Elderly people, immunocompromised people, and especially people with chronic comorbidities should strictly adhere to mosquito protection measures, as they are more at risk of becoming seriously ill.