The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) said today that the risk of catching some infectious diseases is growing amidst longer, warmer summers across Europe.

“While the current heatwaves are making headlines, it is the continuously higher temperatures of an ever longer duration that create the conditions for many infections to spread”, wrote the ECDC in a note, explaining how to deal with the different risk factors. 

For what concerns the bacteria in food, whose growth is accelerated by high temperature, the ECDC suggests increasing hygiene standards, washing fruit and vegetables before eating them, as well as cooking food thoroughly, particularly meat.

The ECDC then warns that warm, low-salinity coastal waters such as the Baltic Sea or river estuaries provide optimal conditions for the Vibrio bacteria, which cause Vibriosis. “Avoiding swimming with open cuts, scratches or recent piercings, and making sure that seafood from these areas is well cooked helps reduce the likelihood of infection”.

Dealing with the mosquito-borne diseases, including dengue, chikungunya and West Nile virus, the ECDC suggests using insect repellent, protective clothing and indoor protection measures such as window screens, air conditioning or mosquito nets. “It is also important to avoid leaving stagnant water close to homes and gardens”.

Speaking about tick-borne diseases, the ECDC says that wearing long sleeves and long trousers when hiking or spending time in parks would decrease the risks. It also says to check for ticks and eventually remove them after spending time outdoors. A vaccine effective against tick-borne encephalitis is also available.

As climate change increases the range of public health threats, there is a growing need for longer-term strategic collaboration and cooperation, concludes the Sweden-based organization. “ECDC has developed practical information on these and other health issues that become particularly important over the summer months, helping to protect both individuals and the wider community”.