Milan, August 11 (LaPresse) – Lombardy reports its first death from the West Nile virus: an 85-year-old man with multiple pre-existing conditions from Paderno Dugnano (Milan) died on Sunday, August 10, at Bassini Hospital in Cinisello Balsamo, where he had been admitted since August 5. Currently, 12 cases of West Nile virus infection have been confirmed in the region, 9 of which are locally acquired. Among them, 5 patients—including the deceased—show neurological symptoms, 4 have mild symptoms without neurological involvement, and 3 are asymptomatic, detected through blood donor screening. The epidemiological situation is consistent with previous years, according to the Regional Welfare Directorate. Donor screening is a key tool for detecting asymptomatic cases and part of the annual surveillance measures activated in response to virus circulation via mosquito vectors and infected animals such as birds and horses. Integrated surveillance for West Nile and Usutu viruses is coordinated by the Regional Welfare Directorate, in line with the National Arbovirus Plan 2022-2025. Local Health Protection Agencies (ATS) oversee territorial monitoring, while diagnoses are carried out by reference laboratories in Milan and Pavia. Lombardy will continue close monitoring and urges the public to follow preventive measures against mosquito bites and cooperate with health authorities.