Alarming surge of mosquito-related illnesses in Europe reported by health authorities

In recent years, Europe has seen a concerning increase in mosquito-borne diseases, with both the West Nile virus and the chikungunya virus posing significant threats.

According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), as of August 13, eight European countries have reported 335 locally acquired human cases of West Nile virus infection. Italy has reported the most cases, with 274 infections. In a first for the continent, France has reported two locally acquired cases of West Nile virus in the Île-de-France region around Paris.

The mosquito species Aedes albopictus, capable of spreading the chikungunya virus, has expanded its presence in Europe. It is now established in 16 European countries and 369 regions, an increase from just 114 regions a decade ago. This expansion has led to a record-breaking 27 chikungunya outbreaks in Europe in 2025.

The shift in mosquito-borne disease transmission seasons is attributed to climatic and environmental factors such as rising temperatures, longer summer seasons, milder winters, and changes in rainfall patterns. This northward expansion of transmission risk is highlighted by the first locally acquired case in France's Alsace region, considered an exceptional occurrence at that latitude.

Celine Gossner, Head of Section for food-, water-, and vector-borne and zoonotic diseases at ECDC, has stated that more people in Europe will be at risk in the future. The ECDC director, Pamela Rendi-Wagner, has further stated that Europe is facing a new normal with longer, more widespread, and more intense transmission of mosquito-borne diseases.

To combat this rising threat, the ECDC has advised coordinated public health action as part of prevention efforts. They recommend protective measures such as using mosquito repellent, wearing long sleeves and trousers, and using window screens and bed nets. The ECDC has also called for individuals in affected areas to protect themselves against mosquito bites.

The increase in mosquito-borne disease outbreaks and the northward expansion of transmission risk underscore the ECDC's continued concern for the increasing risk of such diseases in Europe. As Europe enters a new phase where longer, more widespread, and more intense transmission of mosquito-borne diseases is becoming the norm, it is crucial for public health measures to be implemented and adhered to in order to mitigate the impact of these diseases on public health.