European Commission targets tiger mosquitoes in Cyprus with €500,000 initiative

The European Commission announced on Friday a new initiative to eradicate Aedes aegypti mosquitoes in Cyprus. These mosquitoes, also known as tiger mosquitoes, are responsible for spreading diseases such as chikungunya, Zika, dengue, and yellow fever.

Simultaneously, the Commission approved a new vaccine against the chikungunya virus for use in adults over 18, despite the virus not being endemic in the EU.

"Infected mosquitoes pose significant new public health challenges. We are determined to use every tool at our disposal to address these risks and protect our citizens," said Health Commissioner Stella Kyriakides. She also revealed new funding from the EU4Health program for an innovative pilot mosquito eradication effort in Cyprus. "The impact of climate change on our health is serious and demands decisive measures through the 'One Health' approach within the European Health Union framework," she added.

The pilot program in Cyprus, the only EU country where Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are present, has a budget of €500,000 funded by the EU4Health program. This initiative aims to curb the spread of these mosquitoes, which thrive in warmer climates and have become a growing concern due to climate change.

The chikungunya vaccine, which was unanimously approved by EU member states after a rigorous evaluation by the European Medicines Agency (EMA), will be available to adults over 18. National authorities in each member state will determine vaccine access based on their specific situations and risk assessments.

While chikungunya is not endemic to the EU, climate change has led to an increase in mosquito populations that transmit severe diseases across Europe. A recent report from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) confirmed the presence of Aedes albopictus mosquitoes in 13 EU and EEA countries, as well as Aedes aegypti mosquitoes in Cyprus.

This dual approach, eradicating disease-carrying mosquitoes and vaccinating against potential outbreaks, marks a significant step in protecting public health across the EU.