Country or territory: Greece Affected area(s): Northern regions Incident: Disease outbreak Incident description: According to the Hellenic Center for Disease Control and Prevention (HDCP), at least 65 cases of the mosquito-borne West Nile virus have been confirmed in north eastern Greece since August. The outbreak, which has predominantly affected the East Macedonia and Thrace region, has resulted in three fatalities to date. In addition, the Xanthi and Kavala prefectures have experienced a relative spike in infections in recent weeks; these areas now account for 21 of the total cases. Analysis: Localised outbreaks of West Nile fever, which is spread to humans by infected mosquitoes, are reported annually in northern Greece and elsewhere in the Balkans region. These typically occur during late summer and early autumn (July to September). Most infections are mild, but severe infections can result in fever, headache, chills, confusion, lethargy and flu-like symptoms. The severity of the virus depends on whether it results in serious neurological illness, such as meningitis or encephalitis; the elderly and individuals with an already weakened immune system are at the highest risk. Advice: Persons in Greece are advised to take precautions against being bitten by mosquitoes, such as using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved shirts. Clients are advised to remain aware of the symptoms of the virus; individuals displaying any of the aforementioned symptoms should contact a medical practitioner immediately.
Posted on: Thu, 12 Sep 2013 13:46:24 +0000
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