As our planet experiences the effects of climate change, there are many areas that are impacted, including public health. One particular area of concern is the increase in vector-borne diseases. Here, we provide answers to some frequently asked questions about the health implications of changing ecosystems due to climate change.

Vector-borne diseases are caused by pathogens that are carried by arthropod vectors, which can transmit the pathogens to humans and animals through their bites. These diseases can cause a range of symptoms, from mild fever and joint pain to severe neurological damage and death. There are many different types of vector-borne diseases, including malaria, dengue fever, Zika virus, Lyme disease, and West Nile virus.

Climate change can impact vector-borne diseases in several ways. One of the primary ways is through changes in the distribution and abundance of arthropod vectors. As temperatures rise, arthropods can expand their ranges into new areas, potentially exposing new populations to vector-borne diseases. Changes in precipitation patterns can also impact the abundance of arthropods, as some species may thrive in wetter conditions while others may be negatively impacted by drought.

Another way that climate change can impact vector-borne diseases is through changes in the transmission dynamics of the pathogens carried by arthropod vectors. For example, warmer temperatures can speed up the development of pathogens within vectors, increasing the likelihood of transmission to humans and animals. Changes in rainfall patterns can also impact the availability of breeding sites for vectors, potentially leading to changes in the timing and intensity of vector-borne disease outbreaks.

While all vector-borne diseases are potentially impacted by climate change, some are more vulnerable than others. Malaria, for example, is highly sensitive to changes in temperature and rainfall, and is projected to spread to new areas as a result of changing ecosystems. Dengue fever is also projected to increase in incidence and geographic range, as warmer temperatures create more favorable conditions for the mosquitoes that transmit the disease. Lyme disease, which is transmitted by ticks, is also expected to increase in incidence and geographic range as a result of climate change.

The health implications of changing ecosystems due to climate change are significant. Vector-borne diseases are a major public health threat, and can cause a wide range of symptoms, from mild to severe. Some diseases, like malaria and dengue fever, can be fatal if left untreated, while others, like Lyme disease, can cause long-term health problems if not properly diagnosed and treated. In addition to the immediate health impacts, these diseases can also have long-term consequences, such as chronic arthritis and cognitive impairment.

Mitigating the impacts of climate change on vector-borne diseases requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes implementing mosquito control measures, such as insecticide-treated bed nets and indoor residual spraying, to reduce the transmission of diseases like malaria and dengue fever. It also involves developing vaccines and other medical interventions to prevent and treat vector-borne diseases.

In addition to these measures, reducing greenhouse gas emissions is critical to addressing the root causes of climate change and mitigating its impacts on vector-borne diseases. This can be achieved through a range of actions, from reducing energy consumption to increasing the use of renewable energy sources.

Improving public health infrastructure and increasing community resilience to the impacts of climate change are also important steps in mitigating the impacts of vector-borne diseases. This includes strengthening health systems and improving disease surveillance and response, as well as increasing community awareness and engagement in disease prevention and control efforts.