Rising temperatures and the threat of malaria in Europe: an unwelcome return?

Rising temperatures pose a threat to malaria transmission in Europe. Anopheles vectors are becoming more stable and widespread, putting some areas at increased risk of transmission for extended periods. By 2030 or 2050, the period of susceptibility is expected to extend to 3-6 months in some European countries and Anopheles mosquitoes are expected to migrate northward. In addition, climate change has led to a substantial increase in the number of climate refugees in Europe, increasing the risk of spread of the disease from endemic areas to susceptible regions. Urgent action is needed to prevent the transmission of malaria and other climate change-related diseases in Europe.