15 January 2024 | Justine Laverdeur, Daniel Desmacht, Marie-Pierre Hayette, Gilles Darcis
The article discusses the potential future threats of dengue and chikungunya viruses in Northern Europe, emphasizing the impact of climate change on the distribution and intensity of arboviral diseases. Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti, are key vectors for these viruses. While Aedes albopictus is already established in parts of Europe, including France and Germany, and has led to autochthonous transmission of arboviruses, the establishment of Aedes aegypti in Northern Europe is less likely due to higher thermal requirements. However, climate projections suggest that the conditions will become favorable for Aedes albopictus in the coming decades, potentially leading to more frequent and severe outbreaks of dengue and chikungunya in Northern Europe. The authors highlight the need for improved surveillance and control measures, including enhanced entomological monitoring and public health education, to mitigate the risks posed by these viruses. They also emphasize the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions to limit the impact of climate change on disease transmission.The article discusses the potential future threats of dengue and chikungunya viruses in Northern Europe, emphasizing the impact of climate change on the distribution and intensity of arboviral diseases. Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti, are key vectors for these viruses. While Aedes albopictus is already established in parts of Europe, including France and Germany, and has led to autochthonous transmission of arboviruses, the establishment of Aedes aegypti in Northern Europe is less likely due to higher thermal requirements. However, climate projections suggest that the conditions will become favorable for Aedes albopictus in the coming decades, potentially leading to more frequent and severe outbreaks of dengue and chikungunya in Northern Europe. The authors highlight the need for improved surveillance and control measures, including enhanced entomological monitoring and public health education, to mitigate the risks posed by these viruses. They also emphasize the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions to limit the impact of climate change on disease transmission.