Italy: West Nile virus cases soar to 283

Italy is facing an escalating health crisis as West Nile virus cases surge to 283 with 17 fatalities, according to data updated on 27th September. Deaths have occurred in Piemonte, Lombardia, and Emilia Romagna, prompting concern among health officials. The first human case of West Nile infection this season was reported in July in the province of Parma in Emilia Romagna. Additionally, five cases of the Usutu virus were identified, four among blood donors and one case manifested in a neuro-invasive form. The West Nile virus is currently circulating in 52 provinces across 10 regions. Updated epidemiological data as of 27th September 2023 reveals that European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries reported 85 human cases of West Nile virus (WNV) infection and six related deaths in the past week. Italy accounted for the majority of these cases, reporting 50 new infections and four deaths. Notably, the virus has spread to new regions...