ECDC reports increase in local transmission of tropical diseases in Europe

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has reported the highest number of locally transmitted cases of dengue fever and chikungunya in Europe to date. Previously, most cases in the region were imported by travelers, but current data indicates a shift toward local transmission. This trend is attributed to increased human mobility, international trade, and the geographic expansion of disease-carrying mosquitoes. Cyprus has been identified as a region of particular interest due to the established presence of two mosquito species, Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. While Aedes aegypti was already known in the area, the confirmation of the invasive Aedes albopictus—often called the tiger mosquito—is significant. The ECDC clarifies that this development does not indicate an immediate epidemiological crisis in Cyprus. However, the co-existence of these two species increases the risk of local outbreaks if infected cases are introduced. Health authorities are maintaining close surveillance to monitor the spread of these vectors.