The escalating threat of infectious diseases in Europe, triggered by heavy rainfall and flooding, is a pressing concern that demands our attention. This issue, exacerbated by climate change, poses a significant challenge to public health across the continent. While the connections between extreme weather events and disease outbreaks are becoming clearer, there are still critical gaps in our understanding and preparedness.
The Impact of Extreme Weather on Infectious Diseases
Europe is no stranger to extreme weather, with heavy rainfall and flooding being two of the most common and impactful events. These weather phenomena have been linked to a range of infectious diseases, from food- and waterborne illnesses like norovirus and Escherichia coli to mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue and West Nile fever. The contamination of water supplies, the creation of breeding grounds for disease-carrying mosquitoes, and the damage to infrastructure all contribute to the heightened risk.
A Growing Body of Evidence
A recent study published in Eurosurveillance conducted a rapid review of the evidence linking heavy rainfall, flooding, and infectious diseases in Europe. The review, which examined articles published between 2018 and 2025, identified a range of diseases associated with these weather events, including campylobacteriosis, leptospirosis, and Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC).
The study also highlighted the diverse outcomes across Europe, with outbreaks of vibriosis, hantavirus, and legionellosis following heavy rainfall and flooding. In some cases, extreme weather compromised food and water safety, leading to increased disease transmission. For instance, STEC outbreaks in the UK were linked to contaminated lettuce, possibly due to rainfall washing pathogens from nearby sheep holdings into crop fields.
The Need for Resilient Public Health Strategies
As extreme weather events become more frequent and severe, it is crucial to develop robust public health strategies to protect communities. This includes clear communication, especially for vulnerable groups, but also practical improvements such as better sanitation and drainage systems. A coordinated approach, incorporating One Health and syndromic surveillance, is essential to prevent and manage disease outbreaks effectively.
Despite the growing body of evidence, significant research gaps remain. The authors of the study caution that some relevant studies may have been missed, and that the evidence is skewed towards northwestern Europe. Strengthening the evidence base is vital to developing adaptive and effective public health strategies. Ongoing research and targeted preparedness measures will be key to ensuring communities can respond effectively to the challenges posed by heavy rainfall and flooding.
Conclusion
The links between extreme weather and infectious diseases are becoming increasingly apparent, but there is still much work to be done to fully understand and address these risks. As we navigate an era of climate change, building resilient public health strategies is essential to protect communities across Europe.
