2023-07-02 12:14:15
The Asian tiger mosquito, known for its ability to transmit dangerous pathogens, is spreading in Germany, raising concerns about the potential transmission of diseases such as dengue and chikungunya. While no cases of disease transmission have been reported in Germany so far, experts believe it is only a matter of time due to climate change.
The tiger mosquito, originally from the tropics, has been spreading rapidly in southern Europe and parts of Central Europe since the 1990s. In 2014, the first local propagation was detected in Germany, and it has since established populations in Bavaria, Baden-Württemberg, Hesse, Thuringia, and Berlin.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has recently warned about the increasing risk of mosquito-borne diseases. The Asian tiger mosquito is spreading further north and west in Europe, with the number of affected regions in the European Economic Area nearly tripling within a decade. Unlike native mosquitoes, tiger mosquitoes often use small water reservoirs, making them particularly common in urban areas.
If a tiger mosquito bites an infected person, the viruses it absorbs can multiply in the insect and be transmitted to other people through subsequent bites. While certain viruses, like Zika, require high temperatures to multiply well in mosquitoes, the dengue virus can reproduce even at moderate temperatures. The dengue virus causes long-lasting joint problems, often misdiagnosed as a rheumatic disease.
Exotic mosquitoes are not the only potential carriers of dangerous diseases in Germany. In 2019, the West Nile virus, which originated in Africa, was detected in sick people in Germany for the first time, indicating transmission by native mosquitoes. The Robert Koch Institute recorded 17 West Nile infections in Germany last year, compared to just 4 cases the previous year. Most infections are symptomless or mild, but severe and fatal cases can occur, particularly in older individuals with pre-existing conditions.
While concerns about every mosquito bite may be exaggerated for now, experts warn of the possibility of smaller West Nile outbreaks in the future. It is crucial to destroy existing mosquito populations, and citizens are encouraged to report any mosquito findings to experts for further analysis.
The northernmost place in Germany where a tiger mosquito has been found is Berlin. The mosquito has adapted well to the local environment, with individuals surviving the winter. The tiger mosquito season typically begins in late June or early July and lasts until September or October, depending on the temperature.
As invasive mosquito species continue to spread, education and prevention efforts are necessary to minimize the risk of disease transmission. With climate change playing a significant role in mosquito proliferation, authorities and individuals must stay vigilant in controlling and mitigating the spread of these disease-carrying insects.]
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