Europe's Worst-Ever West Nile Virus Season Claims 130 Lives as Disease Spreads North

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) reported that 2026 became Europe's worst-ever West Nile virus season, with 1,715 locally acquired human cases and 130 deaths across 18 countries as of October 7 — both all-time continental records. Italy was the hardest-hit country with 748 cases; Greece recorded its highest-ever national tally of 445 cases; France hit its own record of 144. Most alarming to health experts was the virus's northward geographic expansion: Belgium recorded its first-ever locally acquired West Nile infections (15 cases), and the Netherlands reported 59 cases — previous seasons had seen very few or no local transmission in those countries. Experts warned this northward spread is expected to continue in coming years as shifting climate conditions broaden the habitats of the Culex mosquitoes that carry the virus. Despite record case numbers, severity indicators — hospitalisation rates, neurological complication rates, and mortality proportions — remained consistent with the previous decade's averages, suggesting improved surveillance and detection rather than a more virulent strain. Transmission season was nearing its end, but health authorities warned low-level spread could continue into autumn. The ECDC called for earlier detection, greater public awareness, and more effective mosquito control across all affected countries.