Strengthening Europe’s preparedness against mosquito-borne diseases

A conference on mosquito-borne diseases, hosted by the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU and the Ministry of Health of Cyprus with support from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, focused on the growing public health impact of these diseases in Europe. The event brought together representatives from EU/EEA Member States, the European Commission, EU agencies, and international organizations from the fields of public health, entomology, and animal health. Participants emphasized the need for strong European cooperation, coordinated surveillance and response, rapid information sharing, and innovative prevention measures in response to growing challenges caused by climate and socio-economic changes. The conference focused on invasive mosquito species, particularly Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti, and coordination of European activities in prevention, research, and medical countermeasures. The discussions strengthened coordination and information exchange to support Europe's preparedness against cross-border health threats linked to mosquito-borne diseases.