Europe faces an alarming expansion of chikungunya risk as new research reveals the virus spreads at temperatures as low as 13 degrees Celsius, far below previous estimates. The Asian tiger mosquito is marching northward through warming European nations, with record outbreaks already hitting France and Italy in 2025. Climate change is creating ideal conditions for this invasive species to establish in the UK, threatening public health across regions previously considered safe from tropical diseases.
Chikungunya's 2025 surge stems from interconnected global factors beyond simple temperature thresholds, with the Americas bearing the heaviest burden and Brazil experiencing the greatest impact. Viral adaptation, urbanization and international travel drive transmission more significantly than climate alone, as demonstrated by genetic mutations enabling new vector efficiency. Comprehensive mosquito management and vaccine deployment offer proven solutions, while China's aggressive multi-strategy response shows effective outbreak control is achievable.
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