More than 240 people across Europe have been infected with West Nile fever, according to reports from Saudi newspaper جريدة المدينة. The cases were recorded as of early August 2026, with health officials urging caution as the mosquito-borne illness spreads.
The newspaper, citing regional health data, reported that Italy and Greece account for the highest number of infections. The World Health Organization has also called for vigilance following the surge, according to a separate report from Saudi outlet عكاظ.
West Nile virus is transmitted to humans primarily through the bite of infected mosquitoes. The current outbreak has drawn attention because of the wide geographic spread across the continent, with multiple countries now on alert, as noted by Vietnam.vn.
Health authorities have not specified the exact breakdown of cases by country beyond naming Italy and Greece as the hardest hit. The total figure of 241 infections has been cited by alyoum.com, a figure consistent with the more than 240 reported by other outlets.
The virus can cause mild flu-like symptoms in most people, but severe neurological complications can occur in older adults or those with weakened immune systems. No fatalities have been reported in the material reviewed.
The reports do not indicate whether the current case count represents a significant increase over previous seasons. However, the WHO's public warning suggests that the situation is being monitored closely.
Public health messaging has emphasized the importance of personal protection measures, such as using insect repellent and eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed.
As summer continues, European health agencies are likely to track whether new infections emerge in the coming weeks. The focus will remain on preventing further spread, particularly in southern regions where mosquito activity is highest.
