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Rome, August 4, 2025 – Italy has reported its tenth death from the West Nile virus since the beginning of the year, marking a concerning increase in infections across the country and the wider European region. The death was confirmed after a 93-year-old woman from the Lazio region succumbed to the virus at the Spallanzani Institute in Rome. This was the fourth fatality reported in Lazio, with other recent victims including a 76-year-old man from Salerona, a 73-year-old man from Maddaloni, and an 86-year-old patient from Latina who also reportedly suffered from pre-existing conditions.
The Italian National Institute of Health recently reported 57 new human cases of West Nile virus between July 24 and July 30, with eight deaths among the confirmed cases. The lethality rate of the neuro-invasive form of the virus this year stands at 20%, up from 14% in 2024, and matching the rate recorded in 2018.
The outbreak is not confined to Italy. According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, cases have also been reported in Greece, Romania, Bulgaria, and France. Notably, Bulgaria and France each detected their first 25 cases of locally acquired infection for the 2025 transmission season. In Italy, the highest concentration of cases (43) was recorded in the province of Latina. Compared to the previous week, Italy saw cases reported in seven new regions, Greece in three new regions, and Romania in one new region.
West Nile fever, caused by the globally widespread West Nile virus, typically manifests with high fever and rashes. Wild birds are the primary hosts, with the virus transmitted to humans mainly via mosquito bites. Human-to-human transmission through physical contact does not occur, though rare cases have been linked to organ transplantation, blood transfusion, or mother-to-fetus transmission. Other mammals such as horses, and to a lesser extent dogs and cats, can also become infected.
The incubation period lasts between two and 14 days. Most people do not exhibit symptoms, but about 20% may experience mild, flu-like effects that generally resolve on their own.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information reported by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control and the Italian National Institute of Health as of August 4, 2025. The situation surrounding West Nile virus outbreaks can change rapidly. For the most current information and health guidance, please consult official public health sources.
