European Union officials signaled a growing concern about mosquito-borne diseases, highlighting an elevated risk of viral illnesses such as dengue and chikungunya spreading through Europe as the climate shifts. Last year, West Nile virus contributed to more than a hundred fatalities across EU member states, and the trend shows no sign of fading.
As average temperatures rise, Europe is experiencing hotter heat waves, more intense floods, and longer summers. These changes create inviting conditions for invasive mosquitoes including Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti, which have the potential to establish themselves in new regions.
The Stockholm-based surveillance agency notes that Aedes albopictus is a confirmed carrier of chikungunya and dengue viruses and has moved further north and west within Europe. Aedes aegypti, known to transmit dengue, yellow fever, chikungunya, Zika, and West Nile viruses, has established a presence in Cyprus since 2022 and could reach additional European countries in the near future.
Mosquitoes transmit disease
Ten years ago, Aedes albopictus had established itself in eight European countries across 114 affected regions. This year, the species is present in 13 countries and 337 sites, according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).
There will be more cases and more deaths.
Experts warn that if the current trajectory continues, there could be higher numbers of dengue, chikungunya, and West Nile fever cases, with a potential rise in fatalities. Andrea Ammon, director of the ECDC, emphasized the need to curb mosquito populations, enhance surveillance, and promote personal protection measures. Statements compiled by the Associated Press underscore the urgency of coordinated action across nations.
Historically, some outbreaks involved imported cases from abroad; today, local transmission is becoming more common in multiple countries, according to Ammon at a recent press briefing.
The agency points to several control strategies: eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed, deploying environmentally friendly larvicides, and raising community awareness about vector control.
Mosquito nets, sleeping in rooms protected by nets, or using air-conditioned environments can reduce exposure. Wearing clothing that covers most of the body and applying effective repellents are recommended personal protection steps.
Diseases and treatments
There is currently no specific antiviral treatment for these infections. Dengue infections are typically mild in about 80 percent of cases, but a subset can develop severe complications that involve bleeding, organ impairment, and in some instances death.
Chikungunya fever presents as intense joint pain and fever; it was first identified in Africa in 1953. The disease causes significant discomfort but is rarely fatal, and there is no vaccine available at present. Treatment focuses on relieving pain and reducing inflammation.
In 2022, there were 1,339 locally acquired West Nile infections across Europe, including 104 deaths — the highest toll since the 2018 outbreak. West Nile fever begins with symptoms such as headache, fever, muscle and joint pains, nausea, and fatigue. Most people recover without lasting effects, though some experience prolonged symptoms.
Continued vigilance and public health measures are essential to reduce transmission. Community engagement, timely reporting, and rapid response capabilities will help mitigate the impact of these diseases on populations across Europe.