An invasive mosquito species has been found breeding in some south east London homes.
The Aedes aegypti species is known to transmit viruses including dengue, chikungunya, and Zika.
This is the fourth time they’ve been detected in the UK in recent years, but the first time they’ve been identified as reproducing.
Consequently, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has increased surveillance and activities to trap and destroy the larvae.
Fortunately, the risk to the public is low, as, despite the five heatwaves we’ve had this year, health experts assure that the UK climate is too cold for the species to survive long-term.
There is currently no evidence of humans becoming infected by the insects.
Typically located in tropical and subtropical regions, the mosquitoes are believed to have been transported in baggage. They were found via the Mosquito Watch scheme, which compiles and detects reports of mosquito species in the UK.
Dr Jolyon Medlock, head of medical entomology at UKHSA, said: ‘There is no evidence that these mosquitoes have caused human infections, and importantly, to date, there is no evidence of the mosquitoes or larvae being detected in nearby public areas.’
The Nuffield Department of Medicine at the University of Oxford also called the finding ‘important’ but urged people not to be alarmed.
What is Aedes aegypti, and how can you recognise it?
Also known as the yellow fever mosquito, the Aedes aegypti species is dark-bodied and approximately four to seven millimetres in length.
You can recognise it by white bands on its legs and a lyre-shaped (a string instrument) white marking on the upper surface of its thorax.
It is native to North Africa but has become commonly invasive in other temperate regions.
The species prefers to rest in dark indoor spots, and eggs can survive for several months in dry conditions before hatching once submerged.
Females lay eggs in damp containers where water accumulates, such as buckets, vases, tyres, and roof gutters.
What is Zika virus?
Zika virus is transmitted by a bite from an infected mosquito. It is usually found in South and Central America, the Caribbean, the Pacific islands, Africa, and Asia.
Many cases are mild, but it can lead to hospitalisations in some and complications if someone is pregnant.
As explained by the NHS, symptoms of the Zika virus tend to last between two days and a week, although some people have no symptoms.
Signs include:
- rash and itching all over the body
While there are no specific treatments, you should rest, stay hydrated, and take pain relief.
In pregnancy, blood tests and ultrasounds may be arranged, as serious problems before and after birth can arise.
You should speak to your midwife or doctor about risks and concerns.
Do the mosquitoes carry other viruses?
Aedes aegypti can also transmit dengue, which can cause high fever and flu-like symptoms. These often get better on their own, and severe cases are rare.
Again, symptoms tend to ease within 10 days, and dengue is not otherwise found in the UK. You cannot catch it from another person.
Symptoms of severe dengue are:
- being unable to relax (restlessness)
- blood in your vomit or poo
As for Chikungunya, this is another mosquito-borne viral infection which also manifests as high fever and joint pain.
Most recover within one or two weeks, but joint pain can be persistent. It is spread by female Aedes mosquitoes.
Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk.
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