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October 10, 2023 : Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral infection, is expected to surge in southern Europe, the United States, and Africa this decade, according to a warning from a senior World Health Organization (WHO) scientist.
Dr. Jeremy Farrar, the WHO’s chief scientist, said climate change creates the conditions for dengue-carrying mosquitoes to spread to new areas. Dengue is already a major public health problem in many parts of the world, but it is relatively rare in the regions Farrar warned about.
“Dengue fever will take off and become endemic in parts of the United States, Europe, and Africa,” Farrar told the Reuters news agency. “It is one of many emerging health threats driven by the climate crisis.”
Four different viruses cause dengue fever, and there is no specific treatment. However, a vaccine is available that can protect against all four viruses.
Symptoms of dengue fever include fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, rash, and nausea. In severe cases, dengue fever can lead to bleeding and shock.
Farrar urged governments in the affected regions to take steps to prepare for the expected surge in dengue cases. These steps include investing in mosquito control programs and ensuring people access quality healthcare.
A senior WHO scientist has warned that dengue fever is expected to surge in southern Europe, the United States, and Africa this decade due to climate change. Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection that can cause severe illness. Governments in the affected regions are urged to prepare for the expected increase in cases.
