Computer Science editorial
Open AccessOA2026
West Nile Virus: Epidemiology, Surveillance, and Prophylaxis with a Comparative Insight from Italy and Iran
This review synthesizes current knowledge on West Nile Virus epidemiology, highlighting the influence of climatic and ecological factors on transmission. It compares surveillance and clinical impact in Italy and Iran, revealing significant regional differences and the need for tailored public health interventions under a One Health framework.
Soroosh Najafi; Maryam Jojani; Kian Najafi; V. Costanzo; Caterina Vicidomini; G. Roviello· Vaccines· 2026· DOI 10.3390/vaccines14010057
The core problem
West Nile Virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne flavivirus that causes seasonal outbreaks in temperate and tropical regions, including Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East. Transmission occurs primarily through Culex species mosquitoes, posing persistent public health challenges. Despite ongoing efforts, comprehensive prevention and treatment strategies remain limited. This review aims to synthesize current evidence on WNV epidemiology, surveillance, and prophylaxis, with a comparative focus on Italy and Iran.
Innovation
A comprehensive search of peer-reviewed literature, clinical trials, and government surveillance data from Italy and Iran was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and supplementary web-based resources. Inclusion criteria focused on molecular studies of WNV, vaccine and antiviral drug development, and regional outbreak reports. Data were extracted and synthesized to compare epidemiological patterns, surveillance systems, and clinical outcomes.
Introduction
West Nile Virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne flavivirus that causes seasonal outbreaks in temperate and tropical regions, including Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East. Transmission occurs primarily through Culex species mosquitoes, posing persistent public health challenges. Despite ongoing efforts, comprehensive prevention and treatment strategies remain limited. This review aims to synthesize current evidence on WNV epidemiology, surveillance, and prophylaxis, with a comparative focus on Italy and Iran.
Why it matters
The contrasting epidemiological pictures in Italy and Iran highlight the need for tailored public health interventions and enhanced surveillance. Italy's robust surveillance system likely contributes to higher detection and reporting of WNV cases, while Iran's lower reported clinical impact may reflect underdiagnosis or differences in virulence and host factors. Bridging gaps in vaccine availability, therapeutic innovation, and disease monitoring is essential for effective WNV management. Collaborative frameworks across Mediterranean and Middle Eastern countries using a One Health approach may improve preparedness and response to future outbreaks.
Who should read this
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