Europe is facing record levels of mosquito-borne diseases, including chikungunya and West Nile virus, according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). Experts warn this surge signals a “new normal” linked to climate change.
Rising temperatures, longer summers, milder winters, and shifting rainfall patterns are creating ideal conditions for mosquito populations to thrive and spread viruses.
So far in 2025, 27 cases of chikungunya have been reported across Europe. The virus-carrying mosquito Aedes albopictus is now established in 16 countries, up from just a few regions a decade ago. Notably, a locally contracted case was reported for the first time in France’s Alsace region, highlighting the northward spread of risk.
West Nile virus cases have also risen sharply, with 335 infections and 19 deaths reported in eight European countries. Italy has been hit hardest, with 274 confirmed cases.
Cyprus is also currently under a health alert due to a surge in mosquito-borne diseases, with the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) classifying it as a high-risk area. Several invasive mosquito species, including the Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) and the yellow fever mosquito (Aedes aegypti), have established populations in Cyprus, posing a risk of transmitting diseases like dengue fever, chikungunya, and Zika virus.
ECDC officials stress the need for public health action and personal protection, urging residents to use mosquito repellent, wear long clothing, and install window screens and nets.
Source: CNA
Feature photo source: Euronews
Also read: No local Chikungunya cases, but mosquito vector present on island
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