Spread of the Zika virus in Europe

5.2.2016

Question for written answer E-001110-16
to the Commission
Rule 130
Marc Tarabella (S&D)

The symptoms of the Zika virus, for which there is no treatment, are similar to those of influenza. The virus is, however, thought to cause brain damage, particularly microcephaly, in infants.

Steadily rising temperatures across Europe are creating conditions in which mosquitoes — including the Zika-spreading Aedes aegypti — can thrive. Today, the World Health Organisation called on European countries to take steps to prevent the spread of the mosquito concerned in Europe. What, specifically, does the Commission propose to do?