West Nile virus deaths rise in Greece and North Macedonia as outbreak spreads

· Health GRCMKDITADEU

Greece's West Nile virus death toll has reached 13 after four additional fatalities were recorded, with confirmed cases climbing to 157 across 45 municipalities in five regions. The National Public Health Organization estimates that for every confirmed case, roughly 140 infections go undetected, suggesting widespread circulation.

North Macedonia has reported five deaths among 43 confirmed infections, with authorities declaring an epidemic in areas around Skopje earlier this month. Twelve European countries have now reported locally acquired cases this year, including Germany, the Netherlands and Austria.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control warned that Europe must strengthen mosquito surveillance, noting the Asian tiger mosquito has established in 16 countries. The World Health Organization called for heightened vigilance in July as transmission seasons grow longer and more intense.

Story development

  1. West Nile virus deaths rise in Greece and North Macedonia as outbreak spreads
  2. North Macedonia declares local epidemics as West Nile deaths rise to four
  3. West Nile virus cases climb across Europe as Spain and Italy report new infections

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