West Nile infections spike in Italy as summer heat persists

Italy is experiencing a spike in West Nile virus infections at the end of August, according to The Local Italy, as the country's summer heat continues to create favorable conditions for the mosquitoes that transmit the disease. The increase has prompted health officials to issue guidance on how residents and visitors can protect themselves.

West Nile virus, which is primarily spread through the bite of infected Culex mosquitoes, has become a recurring seasonal concern across the Mediterranean basin. The virus can cause flu-like symptoms in some people, while in rare cases it can lead to severe neurological complications, particularly in older adults or those with weakened immune systems.

The current outbreak comes as much of Italy remains in the grip of a prolonged summer heatwave, conditions that experts say accelerate mosquito breeding cycles and viral transmission.