Public Health France has announced the detection of the first locally acquired case of West Nile Virus on French territory since the beginning of 2026. Identified in mid-July in the Pyrénées-Orientales, this case confirms the circulation of the virus in humans without a trip abroad being the source of contamination.
This first detection comes as arbovirus surveillance has been strengthened since May 1st. As of July 16th, however, no locally acquired cases of dengue, chikungunya, or Zika have been recorded in mainland France, despite 293 imported cases registered since the start of the surveillance period.
A disease transmitted by mosquitoes
West Nile virus is primarily transmitted by Culex mosquitoes. It circulates naturally among birds but can also infect humans and horses. While most infections remain asymptomatic or cause mild symptoms, some can lead to serious neurological complications.
In 2025, France recorded 62 locally acquired cases of West Nile fever across 17 metropolitan departments, with unprecedented detections in Île-de-France and Normandy. Health authorities are urging people to maintain protective measures against mosquito bites, particularly during the summer months.
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