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Epidemiology of west nile in europe and in the mediterranean basin

Paolo Calistri1, Armando Giovannini, Zdenek Hubalek

  • 1Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise "G. Caporale", Teramo, Italy.

The Open Virology Journal
|June 3, 2010
PubMed

Insights

West Nile virus (WNV) infections in Europe are evolving, with new strains emerging. Migratory birds have historically introduced WNV, but local overwintering by resident birds and mosquitoes is now a growing concern.

Area of Science:

  • Veterinary Virology
  • Epidemiology
  • Avian Ecology

Background:

  • West Nile virus (WNV) infections have been documented in European horses and humans for 30 years, primarily caused by Lineage 1 strains.
  • Historically, WNV introductions were linked to migratory birds from African wintering grounds.
  • Recent WNV cases in Hungary and Austria involve different Lineage 1 clusters and Lineage 2, indicating evolving epidemiology.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze the changing epidemiology of West Nile virus in Europe.
  • To identify potential shifts in WNV transmission dynamics, including local overwintering.
  • To highlight the role of resident bird and mosquito populations in potential endemic cycles.

Main Methods:

  • Review of reported WNV cases in Europe over the past 30 years.
  • Analysis of WNV strain lineages and their associated pathogenicity.
  • Identification of potential vectors and reservoirs for WNV overwintering.

Main Results:

  • WNV introductions were previously occasional, driven by migratory birds.
  • Newer WNV strains (Israeli/American cluster, Lineage 2) are increasingly implicated in European cases.
  • Evidence suggests WNV strains may now be overwintering locally using resident birds and mosquitoes.

Conclusions:

  • The epidemiology of West Nile virus in Europe is changing, moving beyond introductions by migratory birds.
  • Resident bird and mosquito species, such as Culex mosquitoes, magpies, carrion crows, and rock pigeons, are potential key players in establishing endemic WNV cycles.
  • Understanding these new transmission dynamics is crucial for effective WNV surveillance and control in Europe.
Keywords:
EpidemiologyEuropeMediterranean BasinWest Nile.

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