Elderly Individual Loses Life in Italy due to West Nile Infection
Italy is currently grappling with a surge in West Nile virus (WNV) cases, with the first recorded fatality being an 82-year-old woman in the Rome region, and six other confirmed cases in the surrounding area, some in critical condition [1]. This rise in WNV infections comes despite a reduction in overall WNV activity earlier in 2025 across Europe, where fewer outbreaks in birds and horses were reported compared to 2024, and no locally acquired human cases were reported by early July [2].
The West Nile virus, primarily transmitted by Culex mosquitoes, is a disease that can have severe and fatal consequences, particularly for older people with underlying conditions [3]. Human infections are mostly asymptomatic (around 80%), but a small fraction can develop severe neurological disease [1].
The virus naturally cycles between birds and mosquitoes, with humans as incidental hosts [4]. In Italy, there are active surveillance and prevention programs for WNV and related arboviral infections, including blood transfusion safety measures, especially during the summer-autumn transmission season [3].
The recent increase and expanded geographical spread of WNV in Italy and Europe over the past two decades are linked to climatic factors. Regions have experienced longer transmission seasons and greater frequency of outbreaks, attributed to favourable environmental conditions for mosquito vectors and virus activity, such as warmer temperatures and altered precipitation patterns [4]. Climate change influences mosquito ecology by extending the breeding season and increasing mosquito populations, thereby enhancing WNV transmission risk. Experts predict an increase in WNV cases due to these climate change impacts [4].
Migratory birds may have played a role in the introduction of the West Nile virus, which originated from the African continent [5]. The virus has also been reported in Germany in recent years [6].
A task force has been set up in Italy in response to the outbreak, underlining the concern surrounding the WNV resurgence. The Robert Koch Institute is among the organisations involved in the study of the West Nile virus.
In summary, the current outbreak of WNV in Italy underscores the ongoing public health challenge posed by this arbovirus. The increase in cases is consistent with regional patterns driven by climate change impacts on vector ecology and virus circulation, demanding continued surveillance and preventive efforts [1][3][4].
- To combat the resurgence of West Nile virus (WNV) cases, Italy has established a task force that includes the Robert Koch Institute, focusing on ongoing public health challenges.
- As climate change induces warmer temperatures and altered precipitation patterns, it enhances the ecology of mosquito vectors, thus increasing the transmission risk of WNV and triggering an anticipated rise in cases.
- In light of the increasing WNV activity, it is crucial for communities to be aware of prevention programs that address arboviral infections, such as active surveillance, blood transfusion safety measures, and vocational training for health professionals involved in WNV control.
- Some individuals with underlying medical-conditions, neurological-disorders, or older age may be more susceptible to severe consequences when affected by WNV, highlighting the importance of health-and-wellness programs that educate the public about the virus and its symptoms.
