Greece holidays come with a travel warning this summer after there were more than 300 cases of West Nile virus in the country in 2018. The mosquito-borne virus is a particular concern in the hotter months when the insects are active. A total of 50 Greeks died last year. Most infection is observed between July and September - and health officials have issued travel advice on how holidaymkakers can protect themselves. It’s advisable to avoid getting bitten by using repellent, wearing full-coverage clothing and sleeping with nets.
Greece: West Nile virus warning - is it safe to travel to Greece on holiday?
The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office gives the travel advice: “There were more than 300 cases of West Nile virus in Greece in 2018.
“You should consider preventative measures to minimise exposure to mosquitoes, for example using mosquito repellent when outdoors and closing doors or windows or using screens.”
There is no vaccine to prevent West Nile virus - taking insect bite precautions is the only preventable method.
A European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control spokeswoman told Express.co.uk: "Personal protection from mosquito bites is advisable for any person residing in or visiting affected areas, especially the elderly and immunocompromised who are at higher risk of developing West Nile neuroinvasive disease (WNND).
"Personal protective measures to reduce the risk of mosquito bites include the use of mosquito repellent in accordance with instructions indicated on the product label and
