Italy Reports Most West Nile Virus Cases in Europe, ECDC Warns of Wider Spread
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Italy has reported the highest number of West Nile virus cases in Europe this season, with 274 confirmed infections, according to new data released by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).
The Italian tally accounts for more than 80% of the 335 cases recorded across eight European Union countries, where 19 deaths have been reported. Experts warn that infections are expected to climb in the coming weeks, with a peak projected between late August and September.
For the first time, the virus has been detected in the Italian provinces of Latina and Frosinone, signaling its spread into new areas, the ECDC said. After Italy, the countries with the most confirmed cases are Greece with 35, followed by Serbia with nine, France with seven, Romania with six, Hungary with two, and Bulgaria and Spain with one each.
The agency noted that climate change, marked by longer summers and milder winters, is contributing to more intense and prolonged transmission seasons. This year’s outbreak marks the highest number of West Nile cases in Europe in three years.
At the same time, Europe is facing record infections from chikungunya, with 27 outbreaks reported in 2025. France has confirmed 111 cases, while Italy has reported seven.
“Europe is entering a new phase, in which the transmission of mosquito-borne diseases becomes the norm,” ECDC Director Pamela Rendi-Wagner said.
The agency issued new guidelines to strengthen surveillance and vector control, urging both citizens and health authorities to step up prevention measures. Residents in affected areas, particularly children, the elderly and other vulnerable groups, are advised to protect themselves from mosquito bites by using repellents, wearing long-sleeved clothing and installing mosquito nets.
No vaccines are currently available for West Nile virus in humans, the ECDC said, while new immunizations for chikungunya remain in development.
