A recent investigation on Dugi Otok has revealed the silent spread of the dengue virus among locals, raising concerns about health risks in Croatia. Experts warn of two dangerous viruses transmitted by mosquitoes, dengue and chikungunya, which could threaten residents' health due to warmer summers creating favorable conditions for their spread. The outbreak began in May 2024 when a German tourist returned from Dugi Otok with fever and rashes, later confirmed as dengue. Health authorities conducted extensive testing, finding eight individuals with antibodies indicating past or recent infection, though only two reported symptoms. This asymptomatic transmission poses challenges for early detection and disease control. Dengue spreads through the invasive Asian tiger mosquito, which thrives in warmer climates and bites during the day. Climate change and rising temperatures contribute to the expansion of these mosquitoes across Europe. While dengue cases were previously linked to tropical regions, they now appear in parts of Europe, including Croatia. Authorities also caution about chikungunya, which has not yet been recorded in Croatia but remains a potential threat.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about a health issue involving a virus spreading in Croatia, citing expert opinions and scientific data. It does not take a clear stance or show bias toward any political group, ideology, or policy. The focus is on public health and environmental factors, not



%2Ffile%2Fauthors%2F16633921011634156806.jpg&w=3840&q=75&output=webp&we)

