Extreme weather events continue to cause medical crises

Climate change drives the spread of diseases and undermines food security. Illness is taking new paths in Africa. Changing weather patterns create new breeding grounds for disease-carrying insects and allow existing maladies to reach new regions. Studies have already shown that malaria and dengue fever rise in line with temperatures. More than a million Africans now die every year prematurely from air pollution. Ever increasing floods in Lagos cause 50% of the hospitalisations due to water-borne diseases such as cholera and typhoid. A new study now details additional links between disease and climate change in Africa. It says, “Climate change disproportionately affects the vulnerable, who are least equipped to handle its consequences, by exacerbating their situation. One such consequence is the potential for increased human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission.”

Extreme weather events are causing dengue fever crisis

Dengue fever cases have surged globally over the past two decades due to effects of climate change. Its spread has been caused by increased rainfall, humidity, and rising temperatures, notably impacting Africa. The disease, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, has seen a tenfold increase in cases, with new outbreaks in previously most countries such as Kenya. Inadequate surveillance and lack of resources hinder effective response, while climate change-driven extreme weather events, such as floods and droughts, further fuel mosquito breeding. Enhanced surveillance, innovative solutions like Wolbachia bacteria, and improved vaccine access are crucial to combat dengue's escalating threat in Africa and globally.

African centre for disease control calls for action as climate change drives rise in malaria, dengue, and cholera outbreaks

Climate change is causing severe public health crises globally, with nearly half the world's population highly vulnerable, especially in Africa. By 2050, an additional 250,000 people per year may die from climate-related diseases. Africa, contributing only 4% of global emissions, is disproportionately affected, with 7 of the 10 most climate-vulnerable countries. Despite this, high-income countries, responsible for 87% of emissions, face fewer impacts.

Climate change is supercharging malaria, says UNDP, but it can be stopped

Climate change and conflicts are exacerbating malaria outbreaks across Africa by causing mass displacement and disrupting health systems. Rising temperatures and extreme weather events, like the 2022 floods in Pakistan, create ideal conditions for mosquitoes. The invasive mosquito species Anopheles stephensi, thriving in urban areas due to climate-driven migration, poses a new challenge. To combat these threats, initiatives focus on strengthening health systems, utilising digital technologies, and fostering cross-border collaboration. Without urgent action, malaria will continue to spread into new regions, highlighting the need for increased climate and health financing.