Europe Faces Record Surge in Mosquito-Borne Disease Outbreaks Amid Climate Change

Europe is experiencing an unprecedented increase in mosquito-borne disease outbreaks, including illnesses such as chikungunya and West Nile virus, according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). In 2025, the continent has recorded a historic number of outbreaks, with 27 cases of chikungunya so far, and a significant rise in West Nile virus infections, with 335 locally acquired human cases across eight countries, resulting in 19 deaths. Notably, for the first time, a locally transmitted case of chikungunya was reported in France's Alsace region, indicating a northward expansion of the disease.

The surge is largely attributed to climate change, which has extended and intensified the transmission seasons for these diseases. Rising temperatures, milder winters, prolonged summers, and altered rainfall patterns create favorable conditions for mosquitoes like Aedes albopictus, which can spread chikungunya, to thrive and expand their geographic range. The mosquito vector is now established in 16 European countries across 369 regions—a significant increase from just 114 regions a decade ago.

Pamela Rendi-Wagner, the director of ECDC, emphasized that Europe is entering a new phase where longer and more widespread mosquito transmission is becoming the norm. This evolving landscape underscores the importance of preventive measures, both at the individual level and through coordinated public health responses. Protective actions recommended by health authorities include using mosquito repellents, wearing long sleeves and pants, and ensuring windows are fitted with screens and beds are protected by nets.

The regions most affected include Italy, which has reported 274 West Nile virus infections this year, the most among European countries. The increasing incidence of these diseases highlights the need for heightened vigilance and adaptive strategies to mitigate risks associated with climate-driven changes in disease patterns.