On 13 May 2026, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) published a scientific report identifying and mapping potential and highly likely vectors for selected vector-borne diseases in the European Union and neighbouring countries. The report aims to support EU preparedness and response to emerging vector-borne disease threats by providing a comprehensive overview of vector species and their distribution.
The report, produced by EFSA's Panel on Animal Health and Welfare (AHAW), focuses on vectors such as mosquitoes, ticks, and sandflies that can transmit diseases including West Nile virus, bluetongue, and African swine fever. It uses a combination of literature review, expert consultation, and spatial modelling to map areas where these vectors are established or likely to establish.
Policy orientations and trade-offs
The report identifies regions with high vector suitability, highlighting areas where surveillance and control measures should be prioritised. It notes that climate change and increased trade and travel are expanding the geographic range of vectors, increasing the risk of disease introduction and spread. The report does not prescribe specific control measures but provides a risk-based framework for member states to allocate resources.
Trade-offs include balancing the need for enhanced surveillance against the costs of monitoring programmes, and the potential for stricter import controls on animals and goods from high-risk areas versus the impact on trade. The report also underscores the challenge of coordinating cross-border surveillance given differing national capacities.
Impact on stakeholders
EU member states' veterinary and public health authorities will be directly affected, as the report provides evidence to guide national surveillance and control strategies. Livestock and animal health industries may face increased biosecurity requirements in high-risk areas, potentially raising operational costs. The European Commission may use the report to inform future legislative proposals on animal health and disease prevention. Citizens in identified high-risk areas could see enhanced vector control measures, such as insecticide spraying or public awareness campaigns.
Expected institutional follow-up
The report is expected to feed into ongoing EU initiatives, including the One Health approach and the EU Animal Health Law implementation. EFSA will update the mapping as new data become available. The European Commission may request further risk assessments for specific diseases or vectors. Member states are encouraged to use the findings to update their national contingency plans.
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