Climate change is increasing the risk of mosquito-borne viral infections like dengue and chikungunya in the European Union. The ECDC issues a warning that conditions are becoming increasingly favorable for invasive mosquito species including Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti as a result of increased heatwave frequency, flooding, and longer summers.
Aedes albopictus is a recognized carrier of the chikungunya and dengue viruses, whereas Aedes aegypti has been found in Cyprus since 2022 and has the potential to spread to other European nations. This mosquito is known to carry the dengue, yellow fever, chikungunya, zika, and West Nile viruses.
Viral Infections Spread by Mosquitoes
According to the European Centre for Disease Control (ECDC), the Aedes albopictus mosquito has spread from eight European nations to thirteen nations and 337 areas. Increased prevalence of illnesses including dengue, chikungunya, and West Nile fever could result in increased cases and perhaps fatalities.
The ECDC suggests removing standing water, using eco-friendly larvicides, and raising community awareness to reduce mosquito populations.
- Climate change increases EU mosquito-borne viral infections due to heatwaves, flooding, and longer summers.
- ECDC reports Aedes albopictus mosquito spreads, potentially increasing dengue, chikungunya, and West Nile fever.
- Europe faces 1,339 West Nile fever cases in 2022, causing joint pain and 104 fatalities.
People can safeguard themselves by using mosquito bed nets, sleeping in screened or air-conditioned rooms, donning protective clothing, and applying insect repellent.
It is imperative to spread knowledge about diseases that are spread by mosquitoes. There is no known cure for the crippling disease dengue, which in severe situations can result in internal bleeding, organ damage, and even death.
In Europe, 1,339 people will have West Nile fever in 2022, which causes rare but severe joint pain and 104 fatalities.
Headaches, fever, aches in the muscles and joints, nausea, and exhaustion are symptoms of the virus. There is no vaccine, and painkillers are the mainstay of treatment. Weeks to months may pass between symptoms.
