Tiger mosquitoes invade Europe: Climate change boosts dengue risk
The BBC reports that the number of tiger mosquitoes responsible for dengue fever, which manifests with severe abdominal pain, among other symptoms, is growing in Europe. The tiger mosquito usually bites during the day and causes a strong inflammatory reaction accompanied by a burning sensation.
This species of mosquito has established itself in 13 countries of the European Union, including France, Spain, and Poland. Experts link their presence to the rise of dengue fever in Europe.
Climate change is creating favourable conditions for the tiger mosquito to spread, said the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).
The ECDC has warned that international travel will increase the risk of more European outbreaks. It advises removing standing water from gardens and balconies where mosquitoes can breed and using repellents and mosquito nets on windows and doors.
Tiger mosquitoes carry diseases such as dengue fever, chikungunya, and Zika virus, which until recently were usually found only in certain parts of Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Now, they have established themselves in Europe, reports the BBC.
What are the characteristics of the tiger mosquito?
The tiger mosquito has white stripes on its body. It usually attacks during the day, and its bite causes a robust inflammatory reaction and a burning sensation. It moves nimbly close to the ground and does not produce any sound.
Only females bite because they need to drink blood to reproduce. They lay eggs in water, where larvae emerge, becoming pupae and mosquitoes.
It is worth noting that these creatures are highly aggressive and invasive. They quickly adapt to new environmental conditions.
Experts emphasize the importance of controlling and eliminating the accumulation of water, as it can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
