Biological pathogens and allergens

Longer flowering periods and allergies

Environmental conditions are changing due to global warming. This can lead to an increase in early and prolonged flowering periods for native plants, which can intensify or cause allergic symptoms such as runny nose and asthma.

Climate change and new pathogens

International travel and the global exchange of goods contribute to the colonisation of non-native plants, fungi and insects. This can lead to pathogens and carriers of diseases, also known as vectors, spreading to regions where they were previously not native. Due to climatic changes, they can now also survive and spread in Germany. Vectors that can transmit infectious diseases to humans are often insects. These include mosquitoes, spiders and ticks in particular. In Northern Europe in particular, the spread of diseases transmitted by ticks is increasing significantly due to climate change. Here too, protective measures are required for activities with an increased risk, especially when working outdoors (e.g. suitable clothing, insect repellent, etc.).