Infectious diseases in a changing climate

2013 Information for public health officials in the WHO European Region

The frequency and distribution of many infectious diseases are changing under a changing climate. Recent outbreaks of dengue, chikungunya and West Nile virus in countries previously free from these diseases signal just some of the potential threats associated with changes in climate, trade, travel and the environment.

This series of information sheets on infectious diseases in a changing climate aims to highlight current and future risks in countries of the WHO European Region, and to provide public health authorities with information on the scale of the problem and measures for prevention and response.

Each information sheet is based on large systematic literature reviews and expert advice. Where WHO guidelines are available, this information is reproduced.