Mosquito-borne diseases risk increasing in Europe
Mosquito-borne diseases risk increasing in Europe
Experts say the insects, which carry viruses, have moved into new parts of the continent.
Ah yes, secondary and tertiary effects of climate change claps
While climate change definitely has an influence, the main culprit is trade globalisation.
For example the climate of the native region of the Asian bush mosquito (Aedes japonicus) is very similar to the climate in central europe. This species was introduced to Europe around the 2000, presumably by used tire trading, and spread rapidly the following years, because the climate was so similar.
Other species like the Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) do profit more from rising temperatures, but there are also studies showing that after a few generation cycles in Europe, the eggs became more frost resistant. The main driver for introduction and spread was still global trade.
As someone living in a mosquito infested area, this is mildly terrifying. Every year they sting you, a small itchy red spot appears, and then your immune system can take it from there. No big deal, just a minor inconvenience. However, if I need to look out for mosquitoes in the future, that’s going to have enormous ramifications. Hopefully, there will be a vaccine for these things.
Hopefully, there will be a vaccine for these things.
Rich countries being affected makes a vaccine/cure way more likely, yes. Sliver linings?
Just looked it up: there already exists a vaccine against malaria and dengue fever. Doesn’t seem impossible to me if normal annual flu vaccinations start including more exotic things too.