Disease-carrying mosquitoes establish themselves across new regions

Invasive mosquito species capable of spreading dengue, chikungunya and Zika are continuing to establish themselves in new parts of the world, increasing concern about the future reach of mosquito-borne illness.

Europe is experiencing longer and more intense transmission seasons as warmer conditions make more areas suitable for mosquitoes. The Asian tiger mosquito is now established in 16 European countries, twice as many as 12 years ago, while surveillance recorded invasive Aedes species in 41 additional European administrative areas during the latest annual update.

The UK has also recorded an important development. Aedes aegypti mosquitoes and larvae were found breeding at residential properties in east London during the summer, although health experts stressed that the risk to the public remained low and there was no evidence of locally transmitted infection.

Mosquitoes can be carried between countries through vehicles, luggage and imported goods before breeding in small collections of stagnant water. Climate change, international travel and global trade are all helping species survive in places once considered unsuitable.

Public-health agencies are calling for stronger surveillance and mosquito-control programmes. Households can also reduce breeding sites by regularly emptying water from buckets, plant pots, containers and other outdoor spaces.

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