Holidaymakers have been urged to be aware of mosquitos that can cause deadly illnesses.
This comes as more have been detected in the Canary Islands this week.
Aedes tiger mosquitos were found in containers arriving from Castellón in mainland Spain to parts of the Canary Islands. Larvae and pupae were also found in olive trees transported to Tenerife.
The containers were fumigated, however the General Directorate of Public Health has called for further controls to be put in place.
Those in the Canary Islands have been warned
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Aedes mosquitos can transmit diseases such as dengue virus, yellow fever virus and Zika virus.
Dengue fever has already been found in some parts of Europe this summer, with cases detected in countries including Spain, Greece, France and Italy.
Common symptoms of the illness include fever, sickness, raches, headaches and body aches. In extreme cases, hospital care may be needed and it can be fatal.
In Spain, the Ministry of Health has shared advice to stop mosquitos from breeding and increasing in numbers.
Water is a breeding site, so people in Spain are urged to place sand in saucers of flowerpots to avoid water. Those with plants are encouraged to use soil rather than water and change vase water every day.
Pet water should be changed regularly, pools must be chlorinated and circulated daily and empty containers should be stored upside down outside. Regularly clean outdoor drains and appliances like refrigerator trays and air conditioning units.
Travel Health Pro shared advice for holidaymakers regarding insect bites. It said: “The risk of insect bites, and possible vector-borne disease, to the traveller will depend on exposure to insects.
“This will be determined by destination, season and rainfall patterns, as well as activities undertaken, length of stay and measures taken to avoid insect bites.
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Mosquitos can cause Dengue fever
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“Vaccines and tablets are available to help protect against some of the diseases, but may not be suitable for all travellers, placing them at higher risk of disease. Avoiding bites from insects and ticks may be the only way to reduce the risk of disease.
“As dengue is spread by day-biting mosquitoes, particular care with bite avoidance is advised during the day, especially around dawn and dusk.”
It added a good way to reduce your risk of a mosquito bite is to “avoid areas of stagnant or standing water, where mosquitoes are likely to breed”.
Sarah Carter is a health and wellness expert residing in the UK. With a background in healthcare, she offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being, promoting healthier living for readers.
