tourism

Greece confirms first West Nile virus case of 2026 season

Thursday, 9 July 2026/Source: Haniotika Nea/1 min read

Greece's National Public Health Organization (EODY) has confirmed the first West Nile virus infection of the 2026 transmission season. The case involves meningitis/encephalitis in an older adult. West Nile virus spreads through mosquito bites, not person-to-person contact, and most people who are infected experience no symptoms or only mild illness. Older adults and those with weakened immune systems face a higher risk of serious complications. Tourists visiting Crete and Greece this summer are advised to use insect repellent containing DEET, wear long sleeves and trousers at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active, and ensure accommodation windows have screens. If you develop sudden fever, headache, or neck stiffness after a mosquito bite, seek medical attention promptly. No travel restrictions are in place.

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