ISMED-CLIM Highlights Climate-Driven Vector-Borne Disease Risks at Cyprus Conference

Researchers from the ISMED-CLIM project and members of the ISMED-CLIM Regional Task Force in Cyprus took part in the Mosquito-Borne Diseases Conference, held in Nicosia on 10 June 2026 and organised by the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Cyprus as part of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU 2026.
The event convened leading specialists from across Europe, including representatives from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and national public health authorities, to examine current challenges and emerging strategies for vector surveillance, disease prevention, and climate adaptation.
ISMED-CLIM contributes to these efforts through research focused on understanding how environmental and climatic factors influence vector populations and the transmission of vector-borne diseases across the Mediterranean region. The project is developing models of vector population dynamics and associated disease risks to support preparedness, surveillance, and evidence-based public health decision-making.

Beyond mosquitoes, the project also addresses other climate-sensitive disease vectors, including phlebotomine sand flies. These vectors are responsible for the transmission of zoonotic leishmaniasis, a parasitic disease affecting animals, particularly dogs and humans, causing skin lesions or, in severe cases, damage to internal organs. The ISMED-CLIM project is implementing a prospective observational study in Portugal to assess the effectiveness of an integrated intervention that combines evidence-based training with a seasonal Early Warning and Response System for leishmaniasis and aims to improve awareness, knowledge, and protective behaviours among dog caregivers.

Participation in the conference provided a valuable opportunity to exchange expertise with European and national stakeholders, strengthen scientific collaboration, and contribute to discussions on innovative approaches for addressing the growing health impacts of climate change.