West Nile Virus in Europe (Update 4)

Transmission of West Nile virus (WNV) continues in Europe. From 14 to 20 September 2018, EU Member States reported 186 cases: Italy (92), Greece (32), Romania (33), Hungary (12), Croatia (11), Austria (2), Slovenia (2) and Bulgaria (2). Twenty five deaths from WNV disease were reported in Europe: Italy (14), Romania (6) and Greece (5).

In 2018, EU Member States have reported 1 134 cases: Italy (453), Greece (224), Romania (216), Hungary (167), Croatia (36), France (16), Austria (15), Bulgaria (4) and Slovenia (3).

EU neighbouring countries have reported 370 cases: Serbia (286), Israel (81) and Kosovo (3).

One hundred and fifteen deaths from WNV disease have been reported by Italy (35), Serbia (29), Romania (25), Greece (24), Hungary (1) and Kosovo (1) in 2018.

Advice for Travellers

West Nile virus (WNV) is present in many countries across the world but the risk to travellers is low.

All travellers should be advised to practice Mosquito Bite Avoidance, especially from dusk till dawn during peak transmission times and when epidemics are known to be occurring.

No vaccine is available against WNV.

NOTE: UK Blood Transfusion Services accept donation from travellers returning from areas where there is a risk of West Nile Fever, provided the blood is tested negative for WNV.

• It is important donors inform the transfusion services about all recent travel outside the UK so the blood can be tested for WNV, as this is not a routine screening test.

The Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service have produced a leaflet which details information about blood donation after travel:

• Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service Travel Leaflet

For further advice see West Nile Fever