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Austria is seeing a sharp rise in infections with the West Nile virus (WNV), with 2024 marking a record year. According to new findings from the Institute of Tropical Medicine and a long-term study by the Medical University of Vienna, 37 human cases were confirmed—more than ever before. The virus was first detected in Austria in 2009.
Researchers warn that the pathogen, transmitted by native mosquito species, is no longer appearing sporadically. Instead, it is spreading continuously across the country. As a result, experts now classify West Nile virus as endemic in Austria.
Burgenland Emerges as a Hotspot
The northern region of Burgenland has been particularly affected. Once primarily associated with southern and southeastern Europe, the virus was detected 16 times in Burgenland alone in 2024.
Of the 37 confirmed cases nationwide, 19 patients required hospital treatment for severe symptoms. Early detection remains a major challenge: most infections cause no symptoms or only mild, flu-like illness. Specialists believe the true number of infections may be significantly higher due to undiagnosed cases.
“The clear rise in infections shows that West Nile virus is now firmly established in Austria,” said virologist Judith Aberle, lead researcher at the Medical University of Vienna’s Center for Virology.
Health experts urge the public—especially during summer months—to consider a possible WNV infection when experiencing flu-like symptoms or neurological issues such as meningitis or encephalitis.
Severe Neurological Complications Possible
The virus is primarily transmitted through mosquito bites. Mosquitoes become carriers after feeding on infected birds. Around 80 percent of infected individuals show no symptoms. About 20 percent develop fever, headaches, and body aches.
Fewer than one percent experience severe neurological complications, including inflammation of the brain or meninges. There is currently no vaccine, making prevention and surveillance essential.
Authorities Stress Importance of Mosquito Protection
Public health agencies emphasize simple but effective protective measures: using insect repellent, wearing close-fitting clothing during summer, and eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed.
The trend is not limited to Austria. Across Europe, West Nile virus is becoming increasingly common. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) reported more than 1,000 cases in 2025, particularly in Italy, Greece, and France. Experts warn that climate change and the expanding range of mosquito species could make tropical diseases increasingly endemic in Europe.
-source: APA/picture: pixabay.com
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