The dangerous little friend we take with us from holiday
You can recognize the Asian tiger mosquito by its black and white striped legs. This non-native insect seems to adapt smoothly to the climate in every country. The tiger mosquito is native to Southeast Asia and can spread infectious diseases such as dengue and chikungunya if present among the population. The insect has since spread to large parts of the world by nesting and traveling along in used car tires and bamboo room plants, among other things. Ab unusually warm winter further encourages the survival of overwintering eggs in other countries. Mosquito season runs until about October, and eggs may still be in the breeding grounds by then.
Meanwhile, the aedes mosquito has already spread around the world, more than likely from people who went on vacation and unknowingly brought home mosquitoes, eggs or larvae.
Experts recommend avoiding standing water - an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes - in one's own environment to prevent the survival and further spread of the tiger mosquito. After all, the insects can transmit viruses such as dengue and zika. In addition, authorities in most countries are urging people to continue to report sightings of the tiger mosquito. That way, scientists can quickly assess the situation and take action.
(FVDV for Tagtik/Source: Sciensano - NOS/Illustration: Photo by National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases on Unsplash)
