West Nile virus is continuing to spread across parts of Europe and the Balkans, with new cases reported in Croatia and Albania, while Macedonia remains among the countries most affected this season. According to the latest European data, 625 locally acquired cases had been identified in 12 European countries as of August 21. Italy recorded the highest number with 311 cases, followed by Greece with 157, Spain with 63 and Macedonia with 37 cases reported to the European system. The figures show that West Nile virus remains particularly active across the Mediterranean and Balkan region, with local transmission also recorded in Serbia, Kosovo and other countries.
Croatia has confirmed three cases of West Nile virus during July and August, involving patients from eastern, central and northwestern parts of the country. One patient was reportedly in serious condition and receiving respiratory support. Albania has also confirmed a new infection in a patient from the Korçë region. The case was laboratory confirmed on August 1 and represents Albania’s first reported West Nile infection of the 2026 transmission season. Macedonia has experienced a more serious outbreak, with the ECDC reporting 37 locally acquired cases by August 21, while national health authorities have since reported additional infections and a fifth death connected to the virus. The situation has prompted increased mosquito control measures, particularly around Skopje.
West Nile virus is primarily transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes, most commonly mosquitoes from the Culex genus, which can become infected after feeding on birds carrying the virus. The virus does not normally spread through ordinary contact between people. Most infected individuals develop no noticeable symptoms, while others may experience fever, headache, tiredness and body aches. In a small percentage of infections, however, the virus can cause serious neurological illnesses such as encephalitis or meningitis. Older adults and people with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of developing severe disease. The World Health Organization has urged European countries to strengthen mosquito surveillance and public information efforts as the transmission season intensifies.
The latest figures show that West Nile virus is continuing to expand across Europe, with 99 areas reporting local transmission across 12 countries by August 21. Twenty one of those areas appeared on the list for the first time during the latest reporting week. Beyond the Balkans, cases have also been reported in Italy, Spain, Romania, France, Austria, Germany and the Netherlands. Warm temperatures and conditions favorable to mosquito reproduction can allow transmission to continue throughout the summer, making prevention particularly important. Residents and tourists can reduce their risk by using mosquito repellent, wearing clothing that covers exposed skin and using screens on windows and doors. With new cases appearing in Croatia and Albania and Macedonia facing a more serious outbreak, health authorities across the region continue to monitor the situation closely.
