General Information

West Nile virus (WNV) is a zoonosis; a disease which can be passed from animals to humans. It belongs to the group of viruses known as arboviruses which are usually transmitted by arthropods (e.g. insects). The virus itself was first isolated from a woman with a fever in 1937 in the West Nile district of Uganda.

Follow the links below for more information about West Nile virus and disease.

West Nile Virus General Information
Information about West Nile virus and disease.
Added/updated: 23 August 2011
West Nile virus - Advice for Health Professionals
Advice for health professionals about recognising and diagnosing West Nile virus infections
Added/updated: 23 August 2011
West Nile virus activity, Europe 2011
Reported West Nile virus activity in Europe 2011
Added/updated: 23 August 2011
West Nile virus activity, Europe 2010
West Nile virus cases reported in Greece for the first time in August 2010.
Added/updated: 23 August 2011
Advice for those travelling to Canada and the USA
The risk of acquiring West Nile virus infection in the USA or Canada is low, however travellers to areas where there is active transmission to humans should take the appropriate anti-mosquito measures.
Added/updated: 23 August 2011
West Nile virus in Southern Europe 2008-9
In 2008 and 2009 increased West Nile virus activity was reported in Southern Europe, particularly Italy.
Added/updated: 13 September 2010