West Nile virus has been spreading widely in recent years, while it has been established in Greece following an increase in mosquito populations migrating from Africa.
Even though it is called West Nile, as its symptoms were fist categorised and isolated in Uganda, the virus reportedly afflicts people and livestock in Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America.
Another six municipalities in Attica were added to the areas that have reported cases of the West Nile virus this summer while cases have been documented in at least 39 municipalities, including central suburbs like Kallithea, Egaleo and Piraeus.
Last year, only 10 municipalities reported cases of the virus which has infected at least 77 people from May 31 until August 20, claiming five lives in Attiki alone.
The virus has also infected people in Viotia, Halkidiki, Thessaloniki, Evia, Imathia, Pella, Corinth, Kilkis and Rethymno.
Greece’s Center for Disease Prevention and Control (KEELPNO) is expected to release its latest report this week.