The Attica Region is intensifying its efforts to contain the spread of the West Nile virus, launching large-scale spraying operations across East Attica. Authorities have deployed what are known as “turbines” — powerful, high-pressure mechanical spraying machines — in a major overnight push to combat the outbreak.
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West Nile Virus: “We will operate throughout the entire night”
Leading the ground response was Giorgos Konstantos, the responsible official from the Attica Region. “We are at the Alykes wetland in Artemida, and right behind me our teams are already operating — and will continue to operate throughout the entire night with two crews,” he told the Orange Press Agency.
“We will be carrying out ultra-low volume (ULV) adulticide treatment, targeted aerial application using a specialized spray mixture. When I say ‘aerial,’ I mean via a specially equipped vehicle. It will generate a cloud that settles over everything in the area — homes, gardens, cars, whatever is there. The particles are so fine and so transparent that by first light, there is no residue left behind. And yet, at the same time, it effectively kills adult mosquitoes,” he emphasized.
Hardalias: “Faced with such a critical issue, there is no room for complacency”
Earlier in the day, Attica Regional Governor Nikos Hardalias convened an emergency meeting with representatives from EODY (the National Public Health Organization), the Benaki Phytopathological Institute, deputy regional governors, and key regional officials. The meeting aimed to adapt the operational response plan in line with the latest epidemiological data. Hardalias announced an escalation of interventions, stressing that “faced with such a critical public health issue, there is absolutely no room for complacency.” Outlining the broader strategy being implemented, he stated:
“We monitor the data daily, we listen to our scientists, and we adapt our interventions immediately. Since the beginning of 2026, we have already increased spraying operations across all of Attica by 30%, and now, as the epidemiological picture continues to evolve, we are scaling up all of our actions even further. We are moving forward with a new large-scale emergency operation covering approximately 10,000 acres in East Attica, always in close cooperation with EODY and the relevant authorities.
There are no magic solutions. But there is a plan, there is scientific guidance, and above all, there is a constant presence on the ground. We are also standing firmly beside our municipalities, deploying the full resources and capabilities of the Region wherever and whenever we are called upon. Because when it comes to public health, we are obliged to remain vigilant, to act decisively, and to intervene immediately wherever the need arises.”
