Using insect repellent and covering up can help protect against mosquito bites
Mosquitoes that carry viruses such as dengue and chikungunya have moved into new parts of Europe, increasing the risk of disease, leading experts have warned.
European scientists say more frequent heat waves and floods, as well as longer, warmer summers, have created more favorable conditions for the insects.
They are calling for better mosquito control and protection measures.
Without them, more illnesses and deaths from mosquito-borne diseases are likely, they say.
These include dengue and Zika – which can cause a range of symptoms such as fever and muscle aches, and in the worst cases make people extremely ill.
The ECDC report suggests that this year the Aedes albopictus mosquito (known to carry dengue and chikungunya) has “established” in 13 countries in Europe – meaning it has developed a self-sustaining population that reproduces – compared to eight European countries a decade ago.
Meanwhile, Aedes aegypti, which can spread diseases such as yellow fever, Zika and West Nile virus, established itself in Cyprus last year, and scientists warn it could continue to spread to other countries.
“Invasive Species”
According to the report, in 2022:
- There have been 1,133 human cases of West Nile virus and 92 deaths, with the majority of cases acquired in Europe – the highest number since about 1,548 cases in 2018.
- cases have been reported in Italy, Greece, Romania, Germany, Hungary, Croatia, Austria, France, Spain, Slovakia and Bulgaria
- 71 cases of locally acquired dengue have been reported in continental Europe – equivalent to the total number reported between 2010 and 2021.
- cases of dengue have been observed in France and Spain
Andrea Amon, Director of ECDC, said: “In recent years we have seen the geographical spread of invasive mosquito species into previously unaffected areas in the EU/EEA.
“If this continues, we can expect to see more cases and possibly deaths from diseases such as dengue, chikungunya and West Nile.
“Efforts should focus on ways to control mosquito populations, increase surveillance and implement personal precautions.”
Zika is spread by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which is most active during the day
Experts recommend removing standing water sources where mosquitoes breed and using environmental larvicides, along with raising awareness about personal measures people can take to protect themselves.
- using insecticide-treated bed nets
- sleeping in air-conditioned rooms
- using window screens
- wearing clothes that cover most of the body
- using mosquito repellent
The ECDC says it is “essential” that health workers and the public are better informed about the various mosquito-borne diseases.
Dengue (spread by mosquitoes that bite during the day) can cause fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, and a blotchy rash.
The number of cases has increased worldwide in recent decades. It is endemic to more than 100 countries in Africa, the Americas, South and Southeast Asia, and the Western Pacific region.
Most cases of West Nile virus do not cause symptoms, but when people do get sick, the virus can cause headaches, extreme fatigue, muscle pain, vomiting, rashes, and sore eyes.
The elderly and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of a form of the disease that affects the brain and can be fatal.
The most common symptoms of the chikungunya virus are high fever and joint pain, along with headache, muscle aches and rashes.