Climate change and neurotropic vector-borne viruses: addressing emerging threats through a One Health approach

Vector-borne diseases are mainly transmitted through the bites of infected arthropods. They are a major public health concern as they account for more than 700,000 deaths annually. Among many vector-borne pathogens, the neurotropic viruses have been contributing to the increased number of deaths across the globe due to severe neurological complications. Despite the advancement of vector control strategies, the prevalence and severity of neurotropic viral infections have not been alleviated till date. Anthropogenic activities cause persistent fluctuations in temperature and weather trends. This plays a major part in shaping the fate of transmission dynamics and pathogenesis of such diseases. Changes in climatic factors, such as global warming and delayed withdrawal of monsoon, have had huge impacts on stretching the window of disease transmission worldwide. The abundance, survival, feeding activity, and vectorial competence of the arthropods are expected to increase with rising temperatures. This review aims to discuss how climate change affects ecosystems, thereby influencing vectors and the associated neurotropic viruses. It also highlights the urgent need for the “One Health” strategy. It is a concept that recognizes that humans and animals do not exist in isolation and are part of a larger ecosystem where their activity and health are interconnected to one another. This holistic approach is essential in addressing the emerging threats posed by climate change, rising rates of infection, and epidemics across the globe.