By Stuart Kerr, Travel Correspondent
Published: 24/08/2025 · Updated: 24/08/2025
Contact: editorial@holidaymate.com | About the Author
Stylised digital illustration of a mosquito hovering over a map of Europe, with red zones glowing across France, Italy, and Portugal to represent the spread of viral diseases.
A New Public Health Threat
Europe is facing record outbreaks of mosquito-borne diseases, with health officials warning of a “new normal” in the spread of chikungunya, dengue, West Nile virus, and even malaria. As AOL reported, 16 holiday hotspots across the continent have registered unprecedented cases this summer, putting millions at risk. The rapid spread is linked to the Aedes albopictus mosquito, better known as the Asian tiger mosquito, which has now established itself in 16 countries and more than 360 regions.
Rising Case Numbers
The situation is particularly acute in southern Europe. In France, more than 500 cases of chikungunya were reported in just six weeks, according to The Sun’s Irish edition. Italy, Portugal, and Spain are also seeing increased transmission of West Nile and dengue, illnesses once thought to be limited to tropical zones. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has confirmed that 2025 has broken records for mosquito-borne disease outbreaks across the continent.
Climate Change and the Spread
Experts point to climate change as a driving factor. Warmer temperatures and wetter conditions have expanded the habitat range of mosquitoes, lengthening transmission seasons. The Guardian recently reported that even the UK has seen mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus, underscoring how rapidly the situation is evolving.
Risks for Travellers
Health authorities are urging travellers to take precautions when visiting affected regions. The World Health Organization recommends using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and trousers, and sleeping under mosquito nets when possible. Local clinics also advise visitors to seek immediate medical advice if they develop fever, rashes, or joint pain after being bitten. Practical advice like this is becoming as important for travel as passports and insurance.
The Economic and Social Toll
The outbreaks also threaten Europe’s tourism sector, with ripple effects on local economies. Resorts in France and Italy are adapting by stepping up fumigation and public information campaigns. As highlighted in Travel in 2025: Why Europe is Bracing, European travel infrastructure is under strain not only from surging demand but also from external shocks like public health crises.
A Changing Landscape
The rise in mosquito-borne diseases adds another challenge to Europe’s already complex travel picture. Alongside sustainability concerns such as those addressed in RefuelEU Aviation Policy and evolving transport trends like Europe’s Night Train Revival, health threats represent a new dimension travellers must weigh when planning their holidays.
Why It Matters
For decades, mosquito-borne illnesses were seen as distant threats limited to tropical regions. Now they are part of Europe’s reality. As record outbreaks spread, the urgency to adapt infrastructure, public health systems, and traveller behaviour has never been greater. For tourists, vigilance is key; for governments, the challenge is to balance open borders with robust disease prevention. Europe’s summers may still promise sunshine and beaches—but increasingly, they also come with a warning buzz.
About the Author
Stuart Kerr is a travel correspondent for Holidaymate.com, covering sustainable tourism, practical guides, and European trends. You can reach him at editorial@holidaymate.com. About the Author
