The trend towards warmer temperatures in many areas of the world is a worrisome sign to entomologists and diseases specialists, because the range of mosquito-borne diseases is closely linked to temperature, according to an article in Time.com yesterday.
“The link between climate change and mosquito-borne illness centers around how rising temperatures may expand the area in which mosquitoes can thrive. Most such illnesses can only be transmitted at temperatures between approximately 16°C (61°F) and 38°C (100°F), according to a World Health Organization report. Perhaps more significantly, the time it takes for mosquitoes to develop decreases significantly the closer temperatures are to around 30°C (86°F). The average global temperature is expected to rise by at least 2°C (3.6°F) by 2100 even if countries take dramatic action to limit their greenhouse gas emissions. In some areas, that shift will be much more dramatic.”
The article goes on to point out that in developed countries like the US, where mosquito control measures are fairly successful, the danger will be less than in countries with more rudimentary prevention. Still, this is a concern for not only public health officials but also farmers who have to worry about insect pests and livestock diseases that are carried by mosquitos and other insects.
