Mosquito-borne tropical diseases surge in Europe, West Nile virus cases climb

Tropical diseases are on a significant rise in Europe, primarily transmitted by mosquitoes, with the West Nile virus (WNV) emerging as a major concern. Greece, in particular, has seen a sharp increase in WNV infections, reporting 47 new cases and four fatalities in the last week alone. This brings the total number of confirmed cases in Greece this year to 157, with 13 deaths.

West Nile virus, originally a tropical virus from Africa, has become endemic in Europe over the past few decades. Birds serve as natural reservoirs for the virus, which is then transmitted to humans by the common house mosquito, Culex pipiens. Biologist Dr. Ana Klobučar, head of the disinfection department at the Andrija Štampar Public Health Institute, notes that approximately 80% of individuals infected with WNV do not develop any symptoms. However, the virus can cause severe neurological illness in a small percentage of cases.

Globally, and increasingly in Europe, dengue fever is also becoming more prevalent. Dr. Klobučar explains that the rise in autochthonous (locally acquired) dengue cases in Europe is linked to infected travelers arriving from endemic areas. These travelers can then transmit the virus to local mosquito populations, which in turn spread it to other people. The World Health Organization reported 1.5 million dengue cases and around 500 deaths worldwide from the beginning of this year.

While West Nile virus and dengue are prominent, other mosquito-borne diseases are also a growing threat. The article highlights the overall trend of increasing tropical diseases in Europe, emphasizing the role of climate change and global travel in facilitating their spread. Public health officials are monitoring these developments closely as mosquito populations become more active.