On July 24, Italy’s National Health Institute (ISS) confirmed in its weekly report that two people have died of West Nile virus, and at least 32 cases of the disease have been recorded in the country so far this year. The majority of the infections have been reported in the province of Latina, a region located approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) south of Rome.
The director of the ISS’s infectious diseases department, Anna Teresa Palamara, stated that the preventative measures have already been implemented to curb further spread of the virus.
The West Nile virus has been on the rise, with several deaths being reported across the US and in Europe. In this gallery, you'll find detailed information on what the virus is, how it is transmitted, the short-term and long-term effects, and so much more.
Curious about how to protect yourself from the West Nile virus? Click through now.