Two individuals have perished, and eight cases of West Nile virus have been reported in Italy this year.
In Italy, the spread of the West Nile virus (WNV) has intensified in 2025, with the Lazio region bearing the brunt of the outbreak. According to the Health Ministry of Italy, as of late July, there have been 32 confirmed WNV cases, including at least one death this year [1][3].
The most affected area within Lazio is the Latina province, where 7 of the 10 confirmed human cases have been reported since the start of the year [1]. This regional concentration contrasts with fewer outbreaks earlier in the year across Europe and a generally reduced viral circulation compared to 2024 [2].
While specific recent case data is limited for other Italian regions, the major burden currently lies in Lazio. Surveillance reports suggest overall lower WNV activity in birds and equids at the start of the season compared to previous years, possibly due to fluctuating ecological conditions and immunity in local bird populations [2].
The West Nile virus, primarily transmitted to humans through mosquito bites, has been active in Italy since its initial detection in 1998. It has been found in mosquitoes collected in Britain for the first time in May 2023 [6]. The virus has been detected in the northern regions of Emilia-Romagna, Veneto, Piedmont, Lombardy, and the island of Sardinia, as well as in the southeastern Puglia region in Italy [5].
Preventative measures recommended in Italy and Europe include reducing mosquito exposure by using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding outdoor activities at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active [3]. Eliminating mosquito breeding sites by removing standing water around homes is also crucial. Public health authorities emphasize monitoring and controlling mosquito populations and issuing timely alerts to the public during transmission seasons [2][4].
No human vaccine is currently approved, though candidates are in clinical trials [1]. Symptoms to watch for range from none (most cases) to fever, headache, neck stiffness, and neurological signs in severe infections [3].
Elsewhere, in the U.S., the West Nile virus caused about 2,500 cases and 182 deaths in 2023, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [7].
In summary, Lazio is the most affected Italian region in 2025, with ongoing monitoring and preventive advice focusing on mosquito control and personal protection as key measures to reduce West Nile virus exposure and disease risk [1][3].
References: 1. Health Ministry of Italy 2. European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control 3. World Health Organization 4. Italian National Institute of Health 5. Italian Ministry of Health 6. Public Health England 7. U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- The West Nile virus, a chronic medical-condition transmitted through mosquito bites, has affected the world, with Europe seeing an increase in cases, particularly in the Lazio region of Italy, due to the intensified outbreak in 2025.
- The Health-and-wellness authorities in Europe recommend several preventative measures to decrease the risk of transmission, including reducing mosquito exposure, eliminating breeding sites, and monitoring and controlling mosquito populations.
- Despite ongoing research and development, there is currently no approved human vaccine for the West Nile virus, with candidates still in clinical trials, making preventative measures such as those recommended by the World Health Organization essential for maintaining public health and preventing the spread of chronic diseases like the West Nile virus.
