Tiger Mosquitoes Behind Dengue Fever Increase in Europe

Invasive Mosquitoes Spread Diseases The Asian tiger mosquito, also known as Aedes albopictus, is an invasive species that spreads diseases. These mosquitoes can carry illnesses from one person to another and from one place to another. They have now settled in 13 countries in the European Union (EU), including France, Spain, and Greece. Experts believe their presence is causing a rise in dengue fever cases in Europe

Climate Change Helps Mosquitoes Spread The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) says that climate change is making it easier for these mosquitoes to spread. Warmer temperatures and increased rainfall create favorable conditions for mosquitoes to thrive. These conditions are now present in more areas, including northern parts of Europe like Paris. Paris will host the Olympic Games at the end of July, and authorities are keeping a close watch on mosquito activity there.

Monitoring and Prevention Efforts In Paris, authorities are monitoring and trapping these mosquitoes to control their population. The ECDC has warned that international travel can increase the risk of more dengue outbreaks in Europe. They advise people to remove stagnant water from gardens and balconies, as mosquitoes can breed in such places. Using mosquito repellent and installing screens on windows and doors can also help prevent mosquito bites.

Growing Threat in Europe Over the past two decades, mosquitoes have become a growing threat in Europe. The Asian tiger mosquito is considered the most invasive mosquito species in the world. It is now spreading across Europe from its initial base in southern European countries. Besides France, Spain, and Greece, these mosquitoes are now found in Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Malta, Portugal, Romania, and Slovenia.

Presence in More European Countries The Asian tiger mosquito has also been recorded in Belgium, Cyprus, Czechia, the Netherlands, and Slovakia. These mosquitoes spread diseases like dengue fever, chikungunya, and Zika virus. These diseases were previously found mostly in parts of Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Another mosquito species, Aedes aegypti, which transmits yellow fever and other diseases, has established itself in Cyprus. Experts are concerned about its potential to spread to other parts of Europe. This mosquito prefers to bite humans and is very effective at transmitting diseases. Rising Dengue Fever Cases Dengue fever starts with flu-like symptoms but can become serious and, in some cases, fatal. The number of dengue outbreaks has been increasing in recent years. Last year, there were eight incidents of multiple infections in France, four in Italy, and two in Spain. Most dengue cases in Europe are imported, reflecting the international movement of people and trade. Nearly 5,000 imported cases were reported



Increasing Local Infections However, locally-acquired dengue infections are also rising. In 2023, 130 people were affected by dengue in Europe, up from 71 the year before. This increase shows that the disease is becoming more common within Europe itself, not just brought in by travelers.

Other Mosquito-Borne Diseases Besides dengue, mosquitoes also transmit other diseases. West Nile virus, for example, is now present in more European regions than ever before. One person in southern Spain was reported to be infected with West Nile virus at the beginning of March. This early infection highlights how climate conditions are creating a suitable environment for mosquitoes even very early in the year.

Protecting Against Mosquito Bites People can protect themselves from mosquito bites by using mosquito repellent. It's also important to remove stagnant water where mosquitoes can breed. This includes water in gardens, on balconies, or in any containers left outside. Installing screens on windows and doors can also help keep mosquitoes out of homes.

Conclusion The spread of Asian tiger mosquitoes in Europe is a serious concern. Climate change and international travel are helping these mosquitoes spread further and faster. They are causing an increase in dengue fever and other mosquito-borne diseases in Europe. Authorities are taking measures to control their population and prevent outbreaks, but it is also important for individuals to take precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites.