New tropical diseases are on their way to Sweden – and some may already be here. The diseases are caused by parasites, mosquitoes, worms, bacteria or viruses. In order for them to establish themselves and spread, it needs to be warm and humid, and with climate change it has become easier for the infections to take hold here at home too. This includes West Nile fever, which the Skåne region is now keeping an eye on. In addition, the taiga tick, which can spread a more serious variant of TBE, has now established itself in Sweden. The higher temperatures are also contributing to an increase in NTM infections (nontuberculous mycobacteria). It is a type of lung infection caused by mycobacteria that are naturally found in soil and water, among other things. They are often difficult to treat because the bacteria are very resistant.

Source: Research.se