DEADLY tiger mosquitoes have been found in two Spanish hotspots sparking an urgent holiday warning for Brits heading abroad.
Those on the way to the sunny Balearic Islands must make sure to know how to spot the dengue-carrying bug.
Tiger mosquitoes, which are native to Southeast Asia, appear to have been spreading across Majorca and Menorca.
Authorities on both islands have been taking preventative measures to stop the pests from spreading any further, including spraying insecticide from helicopters.
The tiger mosquito, scientifically known as Aedes albopictus, is a small, dark mosquito with distinctive white markings on its legs and a white stripe down the centre of its back.
This mosquito is also commonly referred to as the Asian tiger mosquito due to its origin and striped appearance.
Smaller than many other mosquito species, the tiger mosquito is an aggressive daytime biter, with peak activity periods in the early morning and late afternoon.
It has spread to many parts of the world, including the Americas, Europe, and Africa.
Holidaymakers must now be extra vigilant so they’re bitten by this host of killer diseases, which include dengue fever, Zika virus, Chikungunya, yellow fever and various encephalitis viruses.
The bite itself hurts more than that of a European mosquito, as it may result in significant swelling, scars, and occasionally an infection that calls for medical attention.
The tiger mosquito’s ability to adapt to different environments and its aggressive biting behaviour make it a significant public health concern.
Control measures focus on reducing breeding sites and protecting individuals from bites through the use of repellents, proper clothing, and environmental management to eliminate standing water.
Menorca’s Ciutadella Town Hall advised the public on Thursday to clean, empty, dry and renew the water in all containers in the area, including pet drinking fountains or swimming pools.
“The risk is very present in the Balearics and we must consider it very seriously,” said the local authority.
If you spot a tiger mosquito, it is important to bear in mind that there is likely to be a breeding site in close proximity, as its flight range is only about 150 metres.
This week, 600 new cases were reported in France as the Asian Tiger mosquito scourge continues to spread over Europe, according to the Mirror.
Organ damage and internal bleeding can result from severe dengue infection.
Shock can result from a dangerous drop in blood pressure and severe dengue fever can be fatal in certain circumstances.
Pregnant women need to be on extra-high alert as contracting dengue fever can pass the virus on to their unborn child during childbirth.
Experts have alerted to the fact that dengue fever is rapidly spreading throughout Europe and is already present in Britain.
They are also warning that there are mosquitoes already in the UK that might spread the fatal infection, the Mirror reports.
What is dengue fever?
DENGUE fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection caused by the dengue virus.
It is transmitted primarily by Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus.
The disease is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions around the world.
Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, rash, and mild bleeding (such as nosebleeds, gum bleeding, or easy bruising).
In some cases, dengue fever can progress to severe dengue, which is a more serious form and can be life-threatening.
Dengue is diagnosed through clinical symptoms and confirmed by laboratory tests such as blood tests to detect the virus or antibodies.
There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue fever. Management focuses on relieving symptoms.
Patients are advised to rest, stay hydrated, and use pain relievers such as acetaminophen.
Severe dengue requires careful management and hospitalisation to treat complications like dehydration and bleeding.
The most effective way to prevent dengue fever is to control mosquito populations and avoid mosquito bites.
This includes using mosquito repellents, wearing protective clothing, and eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed.
A vaccine called Dengvaxia is available in some countries, but its use is limited to certain age groups and geographic locations due to safety concerns.
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.
