West Nile Virus in Poland, what do we need to know about this infectious agent in 2025 — latest data

Abstract

West Nile virus (WNV) belongs to Flaviviridae family, genus Orthoflavivirus, species Orthoflavivirus nilense, and responsible for dangerous zoonosis, West Nile Fever (WNF). It is the most widespread arbovirus in the world. Is a neurotropic agent, transmitted by mosquitoes’ vectors mostly Culex genus, while the virus reservoir are wild and migratory birds various species. Virus transmission is also possible during blood transfusion and its components and organ transplantation, which is particularly dangerous for hematological and oncohematological patients. Encephalitis can occur in humans, and the virus has the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. Global warming is undoubtedly a significant factor in the emergence of this pathogen in regions where it has not previously occurred.