DENMARK —According to a report by the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), European Union officials have raised concerns about the escalating threat of mosquito-borne viral diseases, such as dengue and chikungunya, in Europe due to the impacts of climate change.
As Europe witnesses a rise in temperatures, more frequent and severe heat waves and flooding, and longer, warmer summers, these changing conditions create a favorable environment for invasive mosquito species, particularly Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti.
The ECDC report highlights that Aedes albopictus, a known carrier of chikungunya and dengue viruses, has been progressively establishing itself in Europe’s northern and western regions.
Similarly, Aedes aegypti, a mosquito species responsible for transmitting dengue, yellow fever, chikungunya, zika, and West Nile viruses, has already settled in Cyprus since 2022 and poses a potential risk of spreading to other European countries.
The ECDC reveals that over the past decade, Aedes albopictus mosquitoes have expanded their presence from eight European countries to 13 countries, affecting 337 regions.
This upward trend raises concerns about an increase in the number of cases and potentially fatalities caused by diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and West Nile fever, warns ECDC director Andrea Ammon.
Efforts should be focused on mosquito population control, enhanced surveillance, and the implementation of personal protective measures.
Combating mosquito-borne diseases
The ECDC recommends several strategies to control mosquito populations and prevent the transmission of diseases.
These include eliminating stagnant water sources where mosquitoes breed, utilizing eco-friendly larvicides, and raising community awareness about effective mosquito control measures.
Individuals can protect themselves by using mosquito bed nets, staying in screened or air-conditioned rooms, wearing clothing that covers most of the body, and applying mosquito repellent.
The ECDC emphasizes the significance of raising awareness about diseases transmitted by mosquitoes.
By educating the public about the risks associated with these diseases and the preventive measures that can be taken, communities can be better equipped to protect themselves and mitigate the spread of infections.
Dengue is a viral disease that has no specific treatment. While the majority of infections are mild, severe cases can result in internal bleeding, organ damage, and even death.
Chikungunya fever, characterized by severe joint pain, is rarely fatal but can be debilitating. Currently, no vaccine is available, and treatment primarily focuses on managing pain with medication.
West Nile infections have seen a concerning rise, with 1,339 locally acquired cases and 104 deaths reported in Europe in 2022.
Symptoms of West Nile fever include headaches, fever, muscle and joint aches, nausea, and fatigue. Most individuals recover without treatment, although symptoms may persist for several weeks to months.
As the climate crisis continues to impact Europe, the heightened risk of mosquito-borne viral diseases poses a significant health threat.
It is crucial for authorities to prioritize mosquito population control efforts, bolster surveillance systems, and promote public awareness about effective preventive measures.
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