Belgium’s West Nile virus cases rise to 10

The total number of confirmed cases and cases considered highly likely to involve West Nile virus, which is transmitted by mosquitoes, has risen to 10 in Belgium.

Operative Information Center-OMM reports that the Belga news agency provided the information, citing official statements from health authorities.

According to the reports, the Flemish Agency for Care and Health said the virus had been detected in three more people in the provinces of Antwerp and Flemish Brabant. In addition, Brussels’ health authority, Vivalis, recorded two cases believed to have been acquired locally in the city. One of those infected has recovered, while the other was identified as an Italian tourist who had returned to Italy and was experiencing mild symptoms. Several of the patients recorded overall were hospitalized because of neurological symptoms, but their treatment is progressing positively.

Health officials said the virus mainly circulates among birds and mosquitoes and warned that new infections could be recorded through October. However, experts emphasized that the overall risk to the general population remains low.

West Nile virus is primarily transmitted to people through the bites of infected mosquitoes. Most infected people develop no symptoms or experience a mild fever, while severe neurological illness is uncommon and occurs mainly among older adults and people with weakened immune systems.