Bug Bite Boil: The Impact of Climate Change on Public Health

For the first time in decades, the continental United States is experiencing a major dengue outbreak. Dengue fever spreads through the infected bite of an Aedes species mosquito. Since July, the Tampa Bay area in Florida has seen uncharacteristically high rates of locally acquired dengue fever infections totaling 252 in recent reports. While the United States has seen intermittent cases and travel-related surges, the recent prevalence of locally acquired infections is abnormal and has led to multiple states of emergency. The most likely culprit of this change - climate change.

In its September report, the United Nations Environment Programme acknowledged that global warming is likely to cross the 1.5°C threshold in the next few years. As global warming increases, governments across the world will be forced to navigate complex issues. One of these areas of concern is the impact of unusual weather events on public health as vector-borne diseases may worsen.

Mosquitoes are a vector for a variety of infectious diseases, such as dengue, malaria, and chikungunya. Typically, mosquito-borne diseases are contained in subtropical and tropical zones most suitable for the insects’ survival. Yet warmer temperatures and changing rainfall patterns have made it possible for the invasive species to extend their range and breeding season. An example of this is the recent discovery of the Aedes aegypti reproducing in the United Kingdom. Although the species has existed in the region, its attempt to breed is rare. While the government is confident that the mosquitos cannot survive the coming winter, there is apprehension in regard to how this situation may develop with the climate emergency.

States independently manage the issue of vector-borne diseases. Currently, the affected counties in the United States and the United Kingdom Health Security Agency are implementing treatment plans to reduce their mosquito populations. However, a new approach of international cooperation may be necessary to prevent future increases in infectious diseases. Rather than treat the symptoms of the emergent public health threat, governments must come together to address its deep roots in the escalating climate crisis.