One health surveillance of west Nile virus in HungaryNice
West Nile virus (WNV) is an emerging zoonotic pathogen transmitted by mosquitoes, with wild birds serving as the primary reservoir and humans and horses as incidental hosts. In Hungary, WNV has become endemic over the past two decades, causing repeated outbreaks in humans and equids, as well as significant avian mortality. Given its complex ecology at the interface of wildlife, domestic animals, vectors, and humans, an integrated One Health surveillance approach is essential.Coordinated monitoring of mosquito vectors, avian reservoirs, and clinical cases in humans and horses allows early detection of viral circulation, identification of high-risk areas, and timely public health interventions. In addition, genomic surveillance of WNV from multiple host species supports the tracking of viral lineages and the assessment of introduction and spread dynamics across the region. Implementing One Health surveillance in Hungary is therefore critical for reducing the public health burden, safeguarding animal health, and strengthening preparedness against future outbreaks.