Greece has recorded 324 locally acquired West Nile virus cases this year, the highest annual total on record, with 30 deaths reported.
The figure surpassed the previous record of 317 cases in 2018, the daily Kathimerini reported on Thursday, citing data from the National Public Health Organization.
Authorities recorded 34 new cases and six additional deaths over the past week. Of the total cases this year, 217 involved complications affecting the central nervous system.
68 people remain in hospital, including 32 in intensive care.
Actual figure may be higher
The Attica region, which includes the capital Athens, accounted for 56.8 percent of reported exposures.
Health experts believe the actual number of infections is considerably higher, as fewer than one percent of those infected develop severe symptoms.
Despite widespread mosquito activity across Europe, Greek authorities believe the outbreak has already passed its peak.
West Nile virus is transmitted primarily through the bites of infected mosquitoes. People over 50 and those with weakened immune systems face a greater risk of severe illness.
