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The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) said 1,715 locally acquired West Nile virus cases had been reported in European Union countries as of October 7, the highest number ever recorded. The agency urged continued prevention, surveillance and mosquito control work as the virus spreads into new areas farther north in Europe.

Italy was the hardest-hit country with 748 cases, and Greece and France also recorded their highest case totals to date. A total of 130 people have died in the EU since the start of the season, although the agency said there was no evidence that the disease ran a more severe course this year.

Virus detected farther north in Europe

The detection of the virus in people and animals in Belgium and the Netherlands shows that it is circulating farther north in Europe, the statement said. It reported 59 cases in the Netherlands this year and 15 in Belgium, where the first locally acquired cases were recorded.

The ECDC expects the northward spread to continue in the coming years and pointed to the importance of surveillance and preparedness under a "One Health" approach that addresses human, animal and environmental health together.

Key takeaways

• ECDC recorded 1,715 locally acquired West Nile virus cases in the EU as of October 7, the highest number on record.
• Italy was the most affected country with 748 cases; Greece and France also hit their highest case totals.
• 130 people have died in the EU this season, but hospitalization, neurological and death rates stayed below the levels of the previous 10 years.
• Belgium reported its first locally acquired cases and the Netherlands 59 cases, showing the virus is spreading farther north.