Dangerous virus sweeping through Europe, potentially reaching Hungary this year

A new scientific study has warned that the tropical chikungunya virus could spread across much of Europe, with climate change creating increasingly favourable conditions for the mosquitoes that transmit the disease.

Dangerous virus possibly heading towards Hungary

According to research highlighted by The Guardian, the virus — once confined largely to tropical regions — can now be carried by invasive Asian tiger mosquitoes established across the continent. The illness does not spread from person to person and is rarely fatal, but it typically causes fever and severe joint pain that can persist for months or even years.

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From the end of spring until the beginning of autumn

Scientists found that rising temperatures are significantly extending the potential transmission season. In southern European countries such as Spain, Italy and Greece, infections could be possible for more than six months each year. Meanwhile, central and western nations — including France, Germany and Hungary — may face transmission risks for three to five months annually.

Climate change is real, and in Europe, it’s even more real

The study, published in the Royal Society Publishing, is the first to analyse how temperature affects the virus’s incubation period inside the mosquito. Researchers determined that the minimum temperature required for transmission is around 13–14°C — about 2.5°C lower than earlier estimates. Lead author Sandeep Tegar said the findings were “quite shocking”, noting that Europe is warming at roughly twice the global average rate.

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Where does this virus come from, and what could we do against it?

Chikungunya was first identified in Tanzania in 1952 and has since infected millions in tropical regions. In recent years, isolated European cases have been recorded in more than ten countries, while large outbreaks occurred in France and Italy last year. A spokesperson for the World Health Organization said further spread could still be limited through mosquito control and public awareness, recommending preventive measures such as insect repellent and light-coloured clothing to reduce bites.