2023-09-05 05:18:00
Title: Paris Takes Drastic Measures to Fight Spread of Tiger Mosquitoes
Date: September 5, 2023
By: Ulrike Hagen
Paris is taking drastic measures to combat the spread of tiger mosquitoes: Entire streets have been closed and the population asked to stay in their homes.
Entire streets in south-east Paris were closed in the early hours of the morning as Paris fights against the rapidly spreading tiger mosquitoes. People were asked to stay indoors as pest control companies sprayed insecticides on trees, lawns, and other mosquito breeding areas, according to the French daily, The World. The regional health agency for the capital, ARS Ile-de-France, stated that the fumigation zone has a radius of 150 meters around the home of a person in the capital’s 13th arrondissement who contracted dengue fever while traveling. The aim is to reduce the risk of transmission of dengue fever after a case has been detected.
The tiger mosquito, also known as Aedes albopictus, is considered a carrier of exotic diseases that can be life-threatening. Health experts warn that climate change is accelerating the spread of tiger mosquitoes, making them a threat not only in Paris but also in other parts of Germany. The mosquitoes are being fueled by climate change, as warmer weather shortens the incubation period of their eggs, and winters are no longer cold enough to kill them off.
The fight against the tiger mosquito is not new in France, as it was first spotted in the country in 2004. However, it has now spread to 71 of the 96 mainland departments, including areas near the northern Channel coast, according to the Health Ministry. To combat the spread, the population is being asked to report sightings of the mosquito, and the information is collected on a special website.
The risks associated with the tiger mosquito are significant. Besides dengue fever, it can potentially transmit more than 20 viruses throughout the year, including the West Nile, chikungunya, and Zika viruses. The fact that these mosquitoes are now multiplying in parts of Europe even during the winter is a concerning development. Germany has observed a population of tiger mosquitoes surviving during the cold season as well.
Paris is on high alert after a second person contracted dengue fever after returning from a trip abroad. City authorities are now taking preventive measures to avoid a chain of transmission from emerging in the Paris region, which is home to approximately 12 million people.
The fight against the tiger mosquito requires immediate action to prevent the further spread of these dangerous insects. As climate change continues to worsen, it is crucial for governments and communities to take proactive measures to protect public health and combat the growing threat from tiger mosquitoes.]
#Roads #closed #people #stay #home