Belgium Reports First Local Cases of West Nile Virus Infection

First local West Nile virus infections confirmed in Belgium's Flanders region. Health Department detects five probable cases, with one patient receiving hospital treatment.

Infections detected where horses and birds have already shown West Nile symptoms.

Officials report low risk of infection and severe disease for local residents. Virus continues spreading throughout Europe, mainly transmitted through bites from infected mosquitoes.

Possible cases identified in Antwerp and Flemish Brabant; confirmatory testing remains underway currently. Mosquito prevention steps shared with care facilities; virus not transmitted directly between people.