West Nile virus cases in Europe reach record levels with 1,855 infections and 141 deaths in 2026

Europe experienced a record West Nile virus season in 2026, reporting 1,855 human infections and 141 deaths across 18 countries as of early October. Italy led with 748 cases, while Greece and France hit record totals of 445 and 144 infections. The virus expanded into northern regions, registering 59 cases in the Netherlands and 15 in Belgium. Lacking a human vaccine, health officials emphasize cross-sector surveillance and personal precautions.

European case totals in 2026

• ▪The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control and the European Food Safety Authority reported 1,855 West Nile virus cases and 141 deaths across 18 European countries as of early October 2026.
• ▪European Union and European Economic Area countries reported 1,715 West Nile virus cases in 2026, well above the 10-year annual average of 693 cases.

Record case numbers in specific countries

• ▪Greece and France recorded their highest historical human West Nile virus case totals in 2026, with 445 and 144 cases respectively.
• ▪Italy recorded the highest number of West Nile virus cases in Europe in 2026, with 748 infections.

Northward spread to Belgium and the Netherlands

• ▪The Netherlands reported 59 human cases of West Nile virus in 2026.
• ▪Belgium reported its first 15 locally acquired human West Nile virus cases in 2026, including two deaths in the Flanders region.
• ▪The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control reported that the West Nile virus is expanding northward, with detections in humans and animals in Belgium and the Netherlands.

ECDC recommendations for Prevention and Control

• ▪European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control official Ole Heuer called for early detection, increased public awareness, and mosquito control to prepare for unpredictable annual West Nile virus variations.
• ▪The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control recommended using insect repellent, wearing long loose clothing at night, and installing window screens or air conditioning to reduce West Nile virus transmission.
• ▪European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control expert Céline Gossner stated that cross-sector coordination between human, animal, and environmental agencies is required because West Nile virus circulates between mosquitoes, birds, horses, and humans.