First WNV cases in south-west; Locally acquired dengue near Marseille
Last week the ECDC reported the first locally-acquired human cases of West Nile virus (WNV) fever in the SW region of Gironde-Nouvelle Aquitaine. In August 2022, positive WNV results were obtained from horses in Gironde, while human WNV cases have been reported in France in the past, but in the SE. A separate ProMED report noted that the Gironde infections (three asymptomatic, two with West Nile fever and two with neuro-invasive disease) were probably contracted in an area that includes the city of Bordeaux. Other WNV reports from the region were tabled by Italy (25 cases, one death) and Greece (eight cases, two deaths). Read more
TWO RESIDENTS of the town of Gardanne near Marseille in the Bouches-du-Rhone region, without a relevant travel history, have tested positive for dengue fever, becoming the first indigenous cases this summer in France. Health authorities have carried out insecticide fumigation in the immediate area. Read more
Advice
West Nile virus is endemic in Eastern Europe and the Mediterranean basin, with epidemics regularly reported in summer and autumn since the 1950s. Most human WNV infections (70-80%) are mild, subclinical or asymptomatic, but around 1-in-150 cases involve potentially severe neuroinvasive disease. The virus is transmitted by Culex mosquitoes, which feed mainly around dawn and dusk. While the risk of infection for most travellers is generally low, those visiting regions reporting human cases, particularly the peak transmission season, should take measures to avoid mosquito bites. Europe’s outbreaks are not as severe or widespread as in other regions where the virus occurs, notably North America. Read more on WNV.
Health Risks
No additional health risks found.
Other Related Diseases
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Affected Regions
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Disclaimer: The following information is intended as a guide only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice.
Affected Countries
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Disclaimer: The following information is intended as a guide only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice.
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