Deadly West Nile virus: Italian pensioner dies from mosquito bite!

Deadly West Nile virus: Italian pensioner dies from mosquito bite!

An 82-year-old woman from Nerola, near Rome, has died as a result of an infection with the West Nile virus. This reports Cosmo. The pensioner was admitted to hospital last week with fever symptoms, but despite intensive medical care, she succumbed to the effects of the infection.

Six additional cases of West Nile virus infections have also been confirmed in the region around Rome. Two other patients, aged 63 and 72, are also in critical condition and are being treated in hospital. Given the increasing cases in the region, relevant authorities have set up a task force to better monitor the situation and take appropriate action.

Transmission and risk groups

West Nile virus is transmitted through mosquito bites and is particularly dangerous for older people with previous illnesses. Severe and fatal courses of the disease usually occur in this risk group. It is estimated that approximately one percent of infections result in serious neuroinvasive diseases, which can include meningitis and encephalitis. According to information from Pharmacy Adhoc There is a worrying development in Europe: The West Nile virus originated in Africa and was probably introduced to Europe by migratory birds.

Cases of infection have been repeatedly recorded in Germany in recent years. Experts assume that the number of unreported cases is significant, as around 80 percent of infections are asymptomatic. The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) explains that the virus can be transmitted to humans and other mammals through infected mosquitoes that have infected birds. It is suspected that the number of cases could increase due to climate change.

Prevention measures and current situation in Germany

Health authorities recommend various measures to prevent mosquito bites. This includes wearing long, light-colored clothing, using insect repellent and removing standing water in the home to reduce breeding sites for vector mosquitoes. So far in 2025, there have been no new recorded human infections in Germany, but an increase in cases was noted in the previous year, especially in eastern Germany.

The West Nile virus has become established in Europe, particularly in southern Europe, and is usually transmitted in summer. In Germany, circulation of the virus in birds and horses was first recorded in 2018. Since then, mosquito-borne diseases have also been documented in humans, highlighting the need for continuous monitoring. The RKI has initiated programs to study wild birds and mosquitoes to better understand the spread of the virus and respond accordingly.