Introduction of Vector-Borne Infections in Europe: Emerging and Re-Emerging Viral Pathogens with Potential Impact on One Health

Abstract

The rise and resurgence of vector-borne diseases (VBDs) in Europe pose an expanding public health challenge, exacerbated by climate change, globalization, and ecological disruptions. Both arthropod-borne viruses (arboviruses) transmitted by ticks such as Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever and arboviruses transmitted by mosquitoes like dengue, Chikungunya, Zika, and Japanese encephalitis have broadened their distribution due to rising temperatures, changes in rainfall, and increased human mobility. By emphasizing the importance of interconnected human, animal, and environmental health, integrated One Health strategies are crucial in addressing this complex issue. Europe faces increased risk due to the expanding habitats of disease-carrying organisms, the spread of new species like Aedes albopictus since 2013, and increased movement of infected individuals between countries, leading European countries to implement strategies such as enhanced surveillance systems, public awareness campaigns, and prompt outbreak response strategies. However, the lack of both targeted antiviral therapies and vaccines for many arboviruses, together with undetected or asymptomatic cases, hamper containment efforts. Therefore, it is important to have integrated strategies that combine climate modeling, disease surveillance, and public health interventions to address expected changes in disease patterns due to global changes. This review explores the spread of arboviruses in Europe, highlighting their historical context, current transmission dynamics, and their impact on public health.

Keywords: One Health; climate; mosquitoes; tick; vector-borne.

Figure 1

Mosquito distribution in Europe according to ECDC source [9]. (a) Aedes albopictus; (b) Culex modestus; (c) Culex theileri; (d) Culex perexiguus unvittatus; (e) Culex pipiens.

Figure 1

Mosquito distribution in Europe according to ECDC source [9]. (a) Aedes albopictus; (b) Culex modestus; (c) Culex theileri; (d) Culex perexiguus unvittatus; (e) Culex pipiens.

Figure 1

Mosquito distribution in Europe according to ECDC source [9]. (a) Aedes albopictus; (b) Culex modestus; (c) Culex theileri; (d) Culex perexiguus unvittatus; (e) Culex pipiens.

Figure 2

Distribution of Hyalomma marginatum (purple color) in Europe according to ECDC source (available online: Hyalomma marginatum—current known distribution: October 2023; accessed on 20 November 2023).

Figure 3

Distribution of Aedes aegypti (purple color) in Europe according to ECDC source [9].