Greece is once again among the European countries facing a significant burden from West Nile virus this year, with the National Public Health Organisation (EODY) warning that the current transmission season could become one of the most severe in recent years in terms of case numbers.
Intense circulation of the virus, particularly in parts of Attica, and a rapid rise in cases from early in the season, has put health authorities on heightened alert.
EODY has stressed, however, that there is no scientific evidence to date that the virus has changed behaviour or become more transmissible than in previous years, attributing this year’s surge instead to a complex mix of factors affecting mosquito populations.
The Athens Medical Association has urged the public, particularly those in vulnerable groups, to consistently follow personal protection measures, and called on the relevant authorities to intensify coordinated prevention efforts without delay.
Recommended precautions include using approved insect repellent on exposed skin and over clothing, wearing clothing that covers as much of the body as possible during peak mosquito activity, using mosquito nets — especially for infants and high-risk individuals — fitting and maintaining insect screens on doors and windows, using fans or air conditioning where possible, and removing standing water from plant pots, saucers, buckets, containers, gutters and other areas around the home.
