ATHENS - The West Nile virus has killed 22 people in Greece so far this year, with 202 reported cases, according to the Hellenic Center for Disease Control and Prevention (KEELPNO) on Thursday.

Another 22 are currently receiving treatment in hospital, including 12 in intensive care units, KEELPNO data revealed.

The West Nile virus is transmitted by the mosquitoes' bites. The Medical Association of Athens (ISA) in a statement urged authorities to step up preventive measures, noting that sporadic sprays do not solve the problem.

The West Nile virus was first detected in Greece in 2010 with a record of 262 confirmed cases and 35 deaths.

No cases were recorded in 2015 and 2016, but in 2017 the country reported five fatalities.