UK malaria fear amid climate change
Updated on 07 May 2007
Malaria outbreaks and tick-borne diseases could happen in the UK as the climate warms up, according to a report.
New research shows there is a one in 40 chance that by 2012 south eastern England will have experienced a serious heatwave. Periods of very cold weather will becoming less common while periods of very hot weather will be more common.
Winter deaths will continue to decline as the climate heats up with flooding an increasing risk.
The updated report on the "Health Effects of Climate Change in the UK," published by the Department of Health, says health authorities need to remain alert to the possibility of future European malaria outbreaks or to the arrival in the UK of better European vectors of malaria.
But any malaria outbreaks in the UK however are likely to be rare and on a small scale involving a small number of people. Prompt reaction to any outbreaks will reduce the chances of endemic malaria transmission, according to the report.
Tick borne diseases are likely to become more common in the UK but this is more likely to be due to change in land use and leisure activities than to climate change.
Increased exposure to sunshine and ultra violet light will lead to an increase in skin cancers. However, the UK population seems to be adapting to increasingly warm conditions.
Public Health Minister Caroline Flint said: "Climate change poses great challenges and it is important to plan ahead for the health consequences. Actions are being taken across the UK Government and the NHS to reduce emissions contributing to climate change.
"We are at the forefront of preparing for climate change - the UK's Climate Change Bill is the first legislation of its kind in the world, establishing a long term legal framework to underpin our contribution to tackling climate change, by putting in place a clear and credible emissions reduction pathway to a statutory goal of a 60% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions by 2050.
"One of the effects of climate change already encountered in this country is the increased frequency of heatwaves. Work is being encouraged at a regional and local level to deal with the possible health effects of climate change."
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