Invasive Mosquito Species and Rising Dengue Fever Threat in Europe
1. **Spread of Asian Tiger Mosquito in Europe**
The Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus), one of the world's most invasive mosquito species, has now been detected in 13 EU countries including France, Spain, and Greece. This mosquito has become established in Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Malta, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, and also recorded in Belgium, Cyprus, Czechia, the Netherlands, and Slovakia. Its presence is a growing concern due to its capability to spread diseases such as dengue fever, chikungunya, and Zika virus.
2. **Impact of Climate Change**
Climate change is playing a significant role in creating favorable conditions for the spread of the Asian tiger mosquito. Warmer temperatures and increased humidity levels are conducive to mosquito breeding and survival, enabling them to extend their range further north. This has led to the establishment of these mosquitoes even in regions previously unaffected by them.
3. **Dengue Fever Outbreaks**
Dengue fever, which can escalate from mild flu-like symptoms to severe illness, has seen a marked increase in Europe. In 2023, there were 130 locally-acquired dengue infections, up from 71 in 2022. Countries like France, Italy, and Spain have experienced multiple outbreaks, highlighting the rising threat. International travel from dengue-endemic countries further exacerbates this risk by increasing the number of imported cases, which soared to nearly 5,000 last year.
4. **Authorities' Response and Public Advisories**
In response to the growing threat, European authorities, especially in Paris where the 2024 Olympic Games will be held, are intensifying efforts to monitor and trap mosquitoes. The ECDC advises the public to remove stagnant water from gardens and balconies, use mosquito repellents, and sleep under mosquito nets to minimize the risk of bites and disease transmission.
5. **Potential Spread of Other Mosquito-Borne Diseases**
Apart from dengue, other diseases such as chikungunya and Zika virus pose significant risks. Additionally, Aedes aegypti, another mosquito species known for spreading yellow fever, has established itself in Cyprus and could potentially spread to other European regions. This mosquito's preference for biting humans and its disease transmission capability make its spread particularly concerning.
6. **West Nile Virus and Early Year Infections**
The West Nile virus, another mosquito-borne disease, is also spreading to more regions in Europe. An early case in southern Spain in March 2023 underscores how favorable climate conditions are enabling mosquitoes to thrive and spread diseases even very early in the year.
7. **Global Context and Future Risks**
Globally, dengue fever is endemic in over 100 countries, with the highest number of cases in Bangladesh, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam. The World Health Organization reported more than six million cases and 7,000 deaths last year. In Europe, there are also concerns that malaria, the deadliest mosquito-borne disease, could see increased incidents if climate conditions continue to change.
Conclusion
The spread of invasive mosquito species like the Asian tiger mosquito poses a significant health threat in Europe, exacerbated by climate change and increased international travel. Authorities are stepping up efforts to monitor and control mosquito populations, while the public is urged to take preventive measures. Continued vigilance, research, and awareness are crucial in addressing this growing threat.