Health
RIVM Reports 16 New West Nile Virus Infections, Fifth Person Dies
The RIVM has reported 16 new cases of the West Nile virus in the Netherlands, bringing the total number of infected individuals to 44. One of these new patients died, marking the fifth fatality in 2026. The infections occurred across several provinces, including South Holland and Utrecht, with all human cases resulting from mosquito bites. Additionally, animal surveillance continues to show significant spread, with the National Veterinary Institute reporting 48 newly positive horses and 71 birds tested positive last week. Consequently, the total count for 2026 stands at 136 horses and 171 birds. While most human infections are asymptomatic or mild, approximately one percent of those infected develop severe illness.
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