Climate change and spread of dengue

Source: Indian Express

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Context

• Despite historically low local transmission rates, Europe saw a significant increase in dengue cases in 2022 and 2023, with France and Italy most affected.
• Higher temperatures, expanding mosquito populations, increased travel-related transmissions, and inadequate vector control measures are contributing to the rise in dengue cases in Europe.

Details

Key Points

• Rising Dengue Cases in Europe:
  • Europe has seen an increase in locally transmitted dengue cases, from 9 cases (2015-2019) to 130 cases in 2023, mainly in France and Italy.
• Factors Contributing to Dengue Spread:
  • Higher temperatures, increased mosquito populations, more travel-related cases, and inadequate vector control are key factors in the rise of dengue in Europe.
• Role of ECDC and WHO:
  • The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) monitor and provide guidelines for controlling dengue and other vector-borne diseases.
• Impact of Climate Change:
  • Climate change contributes to longer breeding seasons for mosquitoes, thereby increasing the risk of vector-borne diseases like dengue in non-endemic regions.
• Public Health Response:
  • Effective vector control, increased awareness, and appropriate public health measures are crucial for mitigating the spread of dengue in Europe.

About Dengue Fever:

Transmission and Vector:

• Dengue fever is primarily transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, which thrive in warm climates and urban areas.

Symptoms and Severity:

• Symptoms include high fever, headache, muscle and joint pains, rash, and nausea. Severe cases can lead to dengue haemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, which can be fatal if untreated.

Global Incidence:

• Dengue is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. Cases have significantly increased, with over 2 million reported globally in 2019 and under-reporting estimates suggesting nearly 400 million infections annually.

Prevention and Control:

• Key preventive measures include eliminating mosquito breeding sites, using mosquito repellents, and implementing community-based vector control programs. Awareness and early diagnosis are critical for managing outbreaks.

Impact of Climate Change:

• Rising global temperatures and increased rainfall create favourable conditions for mosquito breeding, thereby expanding the geographic range and incidence of dengue fever. Climate change is a significant factor in the spread of dengue to non-endemic regions like Europe.

About ECDC:

Establishment and Role:

• The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) was established in 2005 to strengthen Europe's defences against infectious diseases.

Dengue Monitoring:

• ECDC monitors and reports on the incidence of dengue and other vector-borne diseases in Europe, providing guidance for public health responses.

Public Health Initiatives:

• ECDC supports EU member states in disease prevention and control, emphasizing early detection, preparedness, and coordinated responses to health threats.

About WHO:

Global Health Authority:

• The World Health Organization (WHO), established in 1948, leads global efforts in public health and disease prevention.

Dengue Classification:

• WHO's 2009 classification of dengue distinguishes between severe and non-severe cases, aiding in better diagnosis and treatment.

Global Surveillance:

• WHO monitors global dengue incidence, reporting over 4.5 million cases in 2023, and estimates under-reported cases to be nearly 400 million annually.

Guidance and Support:

• WHO provides guidance on vector control, public health policies, and capacity building for member states to combat vector-borne diseases like dengue.

Climate Change Impact:

• WHO emphasizes the impact of climate change on vector-borne diseases, highlighting the need for global cooperation in addressing these emerging health threats.

Sources:

Indian Express

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Discuss the role of climate change in the rising incidence of vector-borne diseases like dengue in non-endemic regions, with a focus on Europe.