Science & Technology (Commonwealth Union) – The Asian tiger mosquito has been known to prefer temperate and tropical climates, and is most commonly found in urban and suburban areas. It is an adaptable species, capable of breeding in a variety of small, artificial water sources, such as discarded tires, flowerpots, and even small depressions in the ground that collect water. This mosquito species has a short life cycle, with eggs hatching within 48 hours of being laid. The larvae develop in standing water and pupate before emerging as adult mosquitoes. The entire life cycle, from egg to adult, can be completed in as little as one week.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) revealed that in 2023, the EU/EEA reported 130 locally acquired cases of dengue, a substantial increase from the 71 cases reported in 2022. This rise is notable when compared to the total of 73 locally acquired cases during the entire decade from 2010 to 2021. Imported dengue cases have also surged, with 1,572 cases reported in 2022 and over 4,900 cases in 2023—the highest number since surveillance began at the EU level in 2008. Early 2024 reports indicate a significant uptick in imported cases, suggesting the numbers for 2024 may be even higher.
“Europe is already seeing how climate change is creating more favourable conditions for invasive mosquitos to spread into previously unaffected areas and infect more people with diseases such as dengue. Increased international travel from dengue-endemic countries will also increase the risk of imported cases, and inevitably also the risk of local outbreaks” said Andrea Ammon, who is ECDC Director. “Personal protective measures combined with vector control measures, early detection of cases, timely surveillance, further research and awareness-raising activities are paramount in those areas in Europe most at risk.”
Regarding the West Nile virus, EU/EEA countries reported 713 locally acquired human cases in 2023 across 123 regions in nine EU countries. Notably, 22 of these regions were identified as places of infection for the first time in 2023, with 67 associated deaths. Although the 2023 case count is lower than the 1,133 cases reported in 2022, the number of affected regions is the highest since the peak in 2018, highlighting the virus’s widespread geographical presence.
Aedes albopictus, a mosquito known for transmitting dengue, chikungunya, and Zika viruses, is expanding its range further north, east, and west in Europe, now maintaining self-sustaining populations in 13 EU/EEA countries. Aedes aegypti, a vector for yellow fever, dengue, chikungunya, and Zika viruses, has recently established itself in Cyprus. Its potential spread to other parts of Europe is concerning due to its high efficiency in transmitting pathogens and its preference for biting humans. The Culex pipiens mosquito, native to Europe and responsible for spreading the West Nile virus, is prevalent throughout the EU/EEA.
The ECDC further pointed out that climate change is expected to significantly impact the spread of mosquito-borne diseases in Europe by creating environmental conditions favorable for the establishment and growth of mosquito populations. This year, a confirmed locally acquired human case of West Nile virus infection was reported in Seville, Spain, with symptoms beginning in early March. In spite of it being an isolated case, it underscores that West Nile virus transmission can occur very early in the year, likely as a result of suitable climatic conditions.
It was highlighted that coordinated vector control measures are crucial in combating mosquito-borne diseases. Further research is required to develop efficient and eco-friendly tools for managing mosquito populations. Additionally, simple measures such as removing stagnant water from gardens and balconies should be promoted to the public. Personal protective measures to reduce mosquito bites include wearing clothing that covers most of the body, using mosquito repellent, utilizing mosquito bed nets or window/door screens, and staying in air-conditioned rooms. Effective awareness-raising campaigns are essential for these measures to be widely adopted.
The improvement of surveillance and early detection of travel-related and locally acquired cases of mosquito-borne diseases are vital for implementing timely and appropriate vector and disease control measures, was also recommended.
Efforts to control the spread of many types of mosquitoes is primarily focus on eliminating breeding sites and reducing the mosquito population through the use of various methods and biological control methods.
