Spotted on French soil for the first time in 2004, the invasive tiger mosquito is now causing major concern as it continues to spread across the country. Health authorities have placed 71 out of the 96 mainland departments on red alert, indicating that the species is both living and breeding in those areas. This mosquito is a vector for diseases such as dengue, zika, and chikungunya, which have caused life-threatening epidemics in other parts of the world. French politicians are starting to take notice of the issue, with some calling on the government to take action.
The tiger mosquito, also known as Aedes albopictus, originated in southeast Asia and made its way to Europe in 1979. It first arrived in Albania and then spread to Italy, where it quickly colonized the entire country. In 2004, the mosquito was first reported in France and has since spread across the country, reaching as far north as Brittany.
The spread of the tiger mosquito in France can be attributed to globalization and human activity. The mosquito was able to hitch rides on ocean liners and containers used in transcontinental trade. Once the containers were offloaded, the eggs could hatch and the mosquito population could establish itself.
Unlike other mosquito species, the tiger mosquito is remarkably resistant and adaptable. It has been able to conquer tropical and subtropical regions in under four decades. Female tiger mosquitoes are the only ones that bite and can transmit viruses like dengue, zika, and chikungunya. These mosquitoes can carry the viruses for their entire life cycles, and their eggs can survive being dry for months or even years.
The spread of tiger mosquitoes in France poses a significant public health threat. Dengue, zika, and chikungunya are all major problems in countries where epidemics have occurred. Dengue can cause high fever, body aches, and rashes, and in severe cases, it can be fatal. Zika can cause congenital malformations in unborn children, and chikungunya can cause long-lasting joint pain.
With global warming causing temperatures to rise in France, the conditions for tiger mosquitoes to proliferate are becoming increasingly favorable. Higher temperatures not only prolong mosquito season but also accelerate their development. Entomologists have found that tiger mosquitoes perform better and reproduce more rapidly at higher temperatures.
Efforts have been made to inform the public about ways to mitigate the spread of tiger mosquitoes. Health authorities have provided guidelines on how to eliminate stagnant water sources, wear protective clothing, and use mosquito repellent. However, experts warn that once tiger mosquitoes become established in an area, it is practically impossible to get rid of them.
As global temperatures continue to increase, France could become more vulnerable to infectious diseases spread by tiger mosquitoes. Researchers are racing against the clock to find a solution that will keep the spread of mosquito-borne diseases at bay.