WHO Urges Europe To Strengthen Mosquito Surveillance As West Nile Virus Spreads

The World Health Organization has urged European countries to strengthen mosquito surveillance as locally transmitted West Nile virus cases are reported in Greece, Italy, Spain, Romania and North Macedonia. The virus is most active between July and September, with climate change creating warmer and longer summers that may help mosquitoes spread it further. While most infections are mild, severe cases can affect the nervous system and become life-threatening. The WHO advises people to use mosquito repellent, wear protective clothing, use nets and avoid outdoor exposure during peak mosquito activity.

The World Health Organization has urged European countries to strengthen mosquito surveillance and public health measures as the West Nile virus spreads across parts of the continent during the peak transmission season.
Locally transmitted cases have been reported in countries including Greece, Italy, Spain, Romania and North Macedonia, raising concerns about the potential for further infections during the warmer months.
The virus is not new to Europe, but health officials warn that changing weather patterns and longer periods of warm temperatures are creating conditions that could allow mosquitoes to survive and spread the infection over wider areas.

WEST NILE VIRUS SEASON UNDERWAY

Most human cases of West Nile virus in Europe occur between July and September, when mosquito activity is at its highest.
The virus is mainly spread through the bites of infected mosquitoes, which usually become infected after feeding on birds carrying the virus.
The mosquitoes can then transmit the infection to humans and other animals when they bite.
The WHO says that while the risk to most people remains low, increased mosquito activity means authorities need to remain alert and strengthen monitoring systems.

MOST INFECTED PEOPLE HAVE MILD OR NO SYMPTOMS

Many people infected with West Nile virus may experience no symptoms or only mild illness.
About one in five infected people may develop West Nile fever, which can cause symptoms including fever, headache, tiredness, muscle aches, vomiting and, in some cases, a skin rash.
Most people recover without serious complications.
However, a small number of infections can develop into a severe condition known as West Nile neuroinvasive disease, which affects the nervous system and can become life-threatening.

WARNING SIGNS THAT REQUIRE MEDICAL ATTENTION

Health officials are urging people who develop serious symptoms after possible exposure to seek medical care quickly.
Symptoms such as a high fever, rash, confusion or disorientation, tremors and neck stiffness can indicate a more serious infection.
Older people and individuals with certain underlying health conditions may be at greater risk of developing severe disease.
For families living in affected areas, recognising these warning signs could help ensure that seriously ill patients receive medical attention as early as possible.

CLIMATE CHANGE CREATING MORE FAVOURABLE CONDITIONS

WHO Regional Director for Europe Dr Hans Henri P Kluge said the virus itself is not a new threat, but the conditions that allow it to spread are changing.
Warmer temperatures and longer summers can give mosquitoes more time to reproduce and increase the period during which they can transmit the virus.
This means areas that previously experienced limited mosquito activity could face longer transmission seasons as temperatures rise.
The changing climate is therefore becoming an increasingly important factor in the spread of mosquito-borne diseases across Europe.

NO VACCINE OR SPECIFIC TREATMENT AVAILABLE

There is currently no approved vaccine for preventing West Nile virus infection in humans and no specific antiviral treatment for the disease.
Medical care focuses mainly on managing symptoms and supporting patients who develop complications.
This makes prevention particularly important, especially during periods of high mosquito activity.

WHO URGES PEOPLE TO PROTECT THEMSELVES

The WHO is advising people living in or travelling to areas where the virus is circulating to take simple precautions against mosquito bites.
These include using mosquito repellent, sleeping under mosquito nets where appropriate and wearing clothing that covers most of the body.
People are also encouraged to reduce the time they spend outdoors around dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are often most active.
Removing standing water around homes can also help reduce places where mosquitoes breed.

NO EVERYDAY HUMAN-TO-HUMAN TRANSMISSION

West Nile virus is not spread through ordinary contact between people.
There has been no recorded human-to-human transmission through everyday activities such as touching, speaking or being near an infected person.
The main route of infection is through the bite of an infected mosquito.
The virus therefore remains primarily a public health and environmental challenge, requiring cooperation between health authorities, mosquito surveillance teams and communities.

A GROWING PUBLIC HEALTH CONCERN

The WHO's warning highlights the need for European countries to improve mosquito monitoring and quickly identify areas where the virus is circulating.
For most people, the risk of severe illness remains low, but the spread of locally transmitted cases across several European countries shows why early detection and prevention are important.
As the continent enters the months when mosquitoes are most active, health officials are urging governments and individuals to take precautions seriously.
With warmer temperatures potentially extending mosquito seasons, stronger surveillance and public awareness could become increasingly important in limiting the impact of West Nile virus across Europe.