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Rising temperatures attributed to climate change are enabling invasive mosquito species to settle in Europe, resulting in an increased incidence of d7ue fever cases.
In 2023 alone, the European Union has seen 130 cases of locally transmitted dengue fever as reported by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), a significant jump from 71 cases in 2022.
When one considers a longer timeframe, the increase becomes even more evident – from 2010 to 2021, only 73 cases were reported throughout those years.
Director Andrea Ammon of the ECDC highlighted, “Climate change is amplifying the chances for invasive mosquitoes to settle in new regions and infect more individuals with diseases like dengue,”.
“Heightened international travel from areas endemic with dengue is also contributing to the augmentation of imported cases, which in turn raises the likelihood of local outbreaks.”
Imported cases are also surging. Over 4,900 Europeans contracted dengue while travelling internationally in 2023 – the highest number recorded since monitoring commenced in 2008, showing a steep rise from 1,572 cases in 2022.
The tiger mosquito, a carrier of dengue as well as chikungunya and Zika virus, was once confined to tropical regions.
Presently, the ECDC has confirmed that this mosquito species is well-established across 13 European countries, including Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Malta, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, and Spain.
The tiger mosquito has also been spotted by authorities at UK ports on various occasions in the recent past, although no local populations persist as of now.
‘Tiger mosquito’ making its way to the UK
About Dengue Fever and its Symptoms
The symptoms of dengue fever include severe joint pain, which earned it the nickname ‘breakbone fever’. Although 75% of those infected are asymptomatic, 1% to 5% suffer from severe dengue, which can be lethal.
Symptomatology may encompass exacerbating headaches, ocular pain, nausea, and vomiting, swollen glands, high temperature, and rashes, as per the WHO.
Typically, these symptoms manifest between four and ten days post-infection and last from two to seven days.
Read More:
Dengue Fever: An Overview and Transmission Dynamics
Mother of Dengue Victim Warns Travelers About Symptoms
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Preventing Mosquito-Borne Disease Risks
According to the ECDC, with climate change engendering conducive conditions for mosquito population growth, mosquito-borne diseases will likely become a more common phenomenon across Europe.
Residents in mosquito-prevalent zones are advised to eliminate stagnant water sources where mosquitoes propagate, utilize bed nets or window screens, and apply insect repellents.
Concerns extend beyond dengue as mosquitoes expand their territory in Europe. For instance, a citizen in Seville, Spain, was diagnosed with West Nile virus this March.
“Even though it is an isolated incident, it accentuates the fact that the transmission of West Nile virus can commence early in the year, likely due to suitable climatic conditions,” stated the ECDC.
The appearance of a mosquito species known to carry yellow fever, dengue, chikungunya, and Zika in Cyprus has been consolidated, which is concerning given its high pathogen transmission efficacy and human-biting preference, as noted by the ECDC.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is dengue fever?
Dengue fever is a tropical disease caused by the dengue virus that is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected Aedes mosquitoes, primarily Aedes aegypti.
What are the symptoms of dengue fever?
Common symptoms include high fever, severe joint and muscle pain, headache, nausea, vomiting, and rash. In severe cases, it can develop into hemorrhagic fever, which can be fatal.
How is dengue fever transmitted?
It is transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. The mosquito becomes infected when it bites a person with dengue virus in their blood.
Can dengue fever be treated?
There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue fever. Treatment is primarily supportive, focusing on relieving symptoms and maintaining body fluid balance.
Is there a vaccine for dengue fever?
A dengue vaccine is available in some countries for individuals aged 9 to 45 who have had a prior dengue infection. However, its implementation varies across regions.
What can I do to prevent dengue fever?
To prevent dengue fever, avoid mosquito bites by using repellents, wearing long-sleeved clothes, and staying in places with effective window screening or air conditioning. Eliminate standing water where mosquitoes can breed.
