Europe – Vector Borne Disease exacerbation (2023)

Hotter temperatures and more rainfall as a result of climate change could increase the spread of vector-borne diseases, like Dengue fever, to more parts of Europe.

Dengue fever is a serious illness transmitted by Aedes mosquito bites. Usually found in the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, South America, Africa and Pacific islands, one species of Aedes mosquito, the Asian Tiger mosquito, is now widespread in Southern Europe (Sky News, 2023).

A study in 2021 highlighted that there was “wide and increasing suitability” for Aedes mosquitoes in Europe (Olivera et al., 2021). Models  show that the environment is already suitable for this mosquito to survive in northwest of the Iberian Peninsula, southern France, Italy and the coastline between the western Balkans and Greece. the study also found that it was likely that suitable areas would expand into northern and eastern Europe – in fact “about 83% of urban areas are expected to become suitable in the future”, in contrast with around 49% now.

Are Aedes mosquitoes found in Europe?

Yes, Aedes mosquitoes can be found in some parts of Europe. Aedes mosquitoes are a genus of mosquitoes that can transmit diseases such as dengue fever, Zika virus, chikungunya, and yellow fever. The two species of Aedes mosquitoes that are most commonly found in Europe are Aedes albopictus (Asian tiger mosquito) and Aedes aegypti.

Aedes albopictus has become established in several countries in southern Europe, including Italy, Spain, France, Greece, and Croatia. It is also present in some parts of central Europe, such as Switzerland and Germany. Aedes aegypti is less commonly found in Europe, but it has been reported in some areas of southern Europe, such as Madeira and the Canary Islands.

Is climate change making Aedes mosquitoes go further north?

Yes, climate change is believed to be contributing to the northward expansion of Aedes mosquitoes. As temperatures warm, these mosquitoes are able to survive in regions where they previously could not. Additionally, warmer temperatures may also lead to longer mosquito seasons and increased mosquito populations, which could lead to an increased risk of disease transmission.

Aedes albopictus, in particular, has been expanding its range in Europe over the past few decades, and this expansion has been attributed, in part, to climate change. Warmer temperatures have allowed this mosquito species to survive and reproduce in areas where it previously could not. Aedes aegypti, on the other hand, is still relatively rare in Europe, but there is concern that it could establish itself in new areas as temperatures continue to warm.

It’s important to note that climate change is just one of several factors that can contribute to the spread of Aedes mosquitoes, and there are other factors, such as human travel and trade, that can also play a role. However, the impact of climate change on mosquito populations is an area of ongoing research, and it’s clear that climate change is likely to have significant effects on the distribution and abundance of Aedes mosquitoes in the coming years.

Read more about health risks here.