France on High Alert as Mosquito-Borne Diseases Surge
Paris, France – france is experiencing an unprecedented rise in diseases transmitted by mosquitoes, prompting increased surveillance and raising public health concerns. Authorities are tracking a significant increase in both tiger mosquito presence and cases of west Nile virus, with a recent fatality linked to the latter.
The surge comes as climate change expands the range of mosquito vectors and intensifies transmission cycles. While tiger mosquitoes have been establishing themselves in France for years, thier numbers are growing, fueled by warmer temperatures. Together, the West Nile virus, traditionally confined to the Mediterranean arc, is spreading to new regions, with a record number of indigenous cases reported this year. This dual threat is placing a strain on public health resources and necessitates a proactive response to protect vulnerable populations.
As of the end of September, France has identified 41 indigenous cases of West Nile virus – transmitted by the Culex mosquito via infected birds – marking a ample increase over previous years. while the majority of infections are asymptomatic, approximately 20% manifest as flu-like symptoms, and less than 1% lead to severe, potentially fatal complications. Tragically, one case resulting in a neuro-invasive form of the virus, involving an individual over 80 with pre-existing health conditions, proved fatal this summer, according to reports from Santé Publique France.
Prior to 2024,France had observed indigenous cases of West Nile fever,including around forty in 2023,but never to this extent outside the established Mediterranean transmission zone. The expansion of both the tiger mosquito and West Nile virus underscores the growing impact of climate change on public health in France, demanding continued monitoring and preventative measures.
The World, with AFP, contributed to this report.
