ROME, Aug. 2, 2025 — A 93-year-old woman has died from West Nile fever, an infectious disease transmitted by mosquitoes. The death occurred Saturday at the Spallanzani Institute in Rome. This marks the fourth death attributed to West Nile in the Lazio region in recent weeks and the tenth nationwide this year.
The woman was originally from Cisterna di Latina. West Nile fever, an illness of tropical origin, typically causes mild symptoms but can be dangerous for vulnerable individuals. Italy first identified West Nile in 1998, and cases have been on the rise due to the spread of invasive mosquito species.
West Nile Cases Continue to Climb
As of July 30, Italy had confirmed 89 West Nile virus infections, with Lazio accounting for 23 of those cases. For comparison, the country recorded 484 cases and 36 deaths in 2024. The growing number of infections has prompted the National Blood Center to implement restrictions on blood donations.
- A 93-year-old woman died Saturday in Rome from West Nile fever.
- This is the fourth West Nile death in Lazio and the tenth in Italy this year.
- Invasive mosquito species contribute to the rise in West Nile cases.
- Blood donation restrictions are in place for those in high-risk provinces.
Individuals who have spent at least one night in Italian provinces identified as having a higher risk of West Nile virus spread between the summer and autumn of 2025 are now subject to limitations on donating blood. A list of these at-risk provinces is available.
What is West Nile fever? This mosquito-borne illness, originating in tropical regions, poses a significant risk to elderly individuals and those with weakened immune systems.
