9 Sep 2012

Three die in Serbia's first West Nile virus outbreak

5:50 am on 9 September 2012

Three people have died in Serbia in the country's first outbreak of West Nile virus.

The virus, which is spread to humans by mosquitoes, causes flu-like symptoms; but in extreme cases it can lead to fevers, comas and swelling of the brain.

Serbian health staff say more than 30 people have been infected.

It's thought that milder weather may have helped boost mosquito numbers.