The latest figures from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) reveal a worrying trend: dengue fever cases in the EU almost doubled in 2023 compared to the previous year. This surge is attributed to climate change fostering ideal breeding grounds for the tiger mosquito, a key carrier of the virus.
Dengue Fever Cases Rise Sharply
In 2023, the EU reported 130 locally acquired dengue fever cases, a significant increase from just 71 cases in 2022. For the entire decade prior to 2022, the EU saw only 71 total cases. This rapid rise highlights the urgency of addressing the issue.
"Europe is witnessing firsthand how climate change is creating a breeding ground for invasive mosquitoes," warns ECDC Director Andrea Ammon. "These mosquitoes spread into previously unaffected areas, putting more people at risk of diseases like dengue."
The Tiger Mosquito: A Spreading Threat
The tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) is a vector for dengue, chikungunya, and Zika viruses. This invasive species is rapidly expanding its range across Europe, the continent experiencing the fastest rate of warming globally. Currently, 13 EU countries have established populations of these mosquitoes.
Impact of Travel and El Niño
The ECDC report also highlights the rising number of imported dengue cases. In 2023, over 4,900 Europeans contracted dengue while traveling abroad – the highest number ever recorded. This increase is likely linked to increased international travel to dengue-endemic regions.
Furthermore, the combination of climate change and the El Niño weather phenomenon likely played a role in the global dengue rise observed in 2023. With over 6.5 million reported cases and 7,300 deaths worldwide, the World Health Organization (WHO) cited the wider distribution of dengue-carrying mosquitoes and favorable weather conditions as key factors.
Beyond Dengue: Other Mosquito-Borne Threats
The tiger mosquito isn't the only concern. Climate change is also creating favorable conditions for other disease-carrying mosquitoes. The yellow fever mosquito, another vector of dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, established itself in Cyprus in 2022. Additionally, a case of West Nile virus was reported in Spain this year, and the malaria-spreading Anopheles sacharovi mosquito was detected in Italy.
The Urgent Need for Action
The rise of mosquito-borne diseases in Europe underscores the urgency of addressing climate change. Additionally, public health measures like mosquito control programs and increased public awareness are crucial to mitigate the spread of these diseases.
Source: Euronews
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