Surveillance of West Nile virus infections in humans and animals in Europe, monthly report – data submitted up to 3 September 2026

Key findings

• The 2026 WNV season is currently seeing an intense level of circulation in both humans and animals in several European countries.

• There is currently no indication of increased disease severity in humans in EU/EEA countries.

• Italy remains the most affected country in 2026, reporting the most human cases and avian outbreaks. Greece has reported a record number of human WNV cases for this time of the year.

• The Netherlands reported its first human WNV infections since 2020, alongside outbreaks in birds and equids, across a broad geographic area.

• Although no human WNV cases have ever been notified in Belgium, ongoing circulation in birds and equids across eight regions suggests a risk for human infections.

• North Macedonia is experiencing an unprecedented WNV outbreak in the capital region, with human cases and detections in birds.

• Further human cases and animal outbreaks may be expected in the coming weeks in Europe.