Mosquito bites in Europe are generally not particularly dangerous, but they can still be unpleasant. Most mosquito species in Europe do not transmit serious diseases. Nevertheless, there are some risks that should not go unnoticed:
- West Nile fever: This virus is transmitted by mosquitoes that are common in southern Europe. However, the risk of serious illness is relatively low and most people only show mild symptoms or none at all.
- Zika virus: Zika is only occasionally reported in Europe, especially in southern regions. However, transmission is rare and in most cases the infection is mild.
- Malaria::There are hardly any cases of malaria in Europe, except in some very remote areas (e.g. Greece, Italy and Bosnia). This disease is transmitted by mosquitoes, but it is now very rare in Europe due to good medical care.
- Ticks: Ticks are a greater threat than mosquitoes in many European countries as they can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease or tick-borne encephalitis (TBE). These diseases are common in certain regions of Europe, but even here the risk is relatively low if protective measures are taken.
For most people in Europe, mosquito bites are more of a nuisance than a serious danger. However, it is advisable to use mosquito repellent, especially in the summer months and in areas where mosquitoes are more common. If you are travelling to tropical or subtropical areas, you should take additional protective measures.