2023-12-23 14:25:00
WHO warns of the spread of mosquitoes in Europe and the increase in dengue cases
The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning about the spread of certain mosquitoes in Europe and the subsequent rise in dengue fever cases. The growing danger is attributed to climate change and the associated rising temperatures, according to WHO specialist Diana Rojas in Geneva.
Italy has reported 82 locally transmitted infections this year, while France has reported 43 and Spain 3. The WHO emphasizes that European countries still have the chance to prevent these mosquitoes from spreading further, if possible. However, the number of reported cases of dengue fever has increased tenfold worldwide from 2000 to 2019.
Small populations of the tiger mosquito and the yellow fever mosquito, which transmit dengue fever, already exist in southern Europe. The eggs of these mosquitoes could survive the winter and larvae could hatch when the weather gets warmer. The majority of cases this year were reported in North and South America, accounting for over 80 percent of the total number of cases.
Tiger and yellow fever mosquitoes are most active during the day and are primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions. However, they are rapidly spreading to other latitudes and higher altitudes. The viral infection caused by these mosquitoes is often mild, but in ten percent of cases it can lead to serious complications.
The WHO estimates the number of dengue fever infections at almost 400 million per year, with only a fraction of these cases being diagnosed and reported. Currently, there are no effective treatments for dengue fever.
To protect themselves from mosquito bites, people are advised to use mosquito spray and wear long-sleeved clothing. Additionally, breeding areas such as standing water should be removed, including plant saucers on balconies, for example.
The organization stresses that most cases this year have been reported from North and South America, but inadequate monitoring in many places means that many infections are not even reported. Therefore, the WHO is urging for increased efforts to prevent the spread of dengue fever in Europe and around the world.]
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