Invasive Mosquito Found Breeding in UK
Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which can transmit dengue, chikungunya, and Zika virus, have been detected breeding in east London for the first time, with the UK Health Security Agency warning of increased incursions due to climate change
Aedes aegypti mosquitoes have been found breeding in east London, marking the first time the invasive tropical species has been detected breeding in the UK. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) announced the detection on 3 September, and has implemented control measures to destroy the larvae and will continue to monitor the area.
The Aedes aegypti mosquito is known to transmit diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika virus. However, the UKHSA has stated that the risk to the public is low, with no evidence that the mosquitoes in east London have caused human infections.
The species is believed to have entered the UK through vehicles, baggage, and imported plants. The UKHSA has warned that in a warming climate, 'we will continue to see incursions of invasive mosquitoes, and increased reports of them being able to survive in the UK'.
## Why it matters The detection of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes in the UK is significant, as it highlights the impact of climate change on the spread of invasive species. A study earlier this year found that chikungunya can now be transmitted in most of Europe due to higher temperatures caused by the climate crisis. This raises concerns about the potential for other tropical diseases to spread to the UK.
The UKHSA's warning about increased incursions of invasive mosquitoes due to climate change is a reminder of the need for continued surveillance and monitoring to prevent the spread of diseases. The agency's control measures to destroy the larvae and monitor the area are crucial in preventing the establishment of the species in the UK.
## What happens next The UKHSA will continue to monitor the area and take necessary measures to prevent the spread of the species. The public is advised to be aware of the risks and take precautions to prevent the spread of diseases. As the climate continues to warm, it is likely that there will be more incursions of invasive mosquitoes, and it is essential that the UK is prepared to respond to these threats.
