A new type of mosquito has been seen in Spain while weather conditions in the UK could boost population.
Experts have warned the UK could see a mosquito infestation this summer. The hot and humid conditions – combined with coronavirus will foster development and wild spread.
The pandemic could mean an increase in the potentially deadly insects, especially to areas such as some swimming pools not being properly cleaned or maintained during lockdown.
It comes as Spain reports the arrival of a new mosquito – the Asian Tiger – which can carry 23 different types of disease.
The Asian tiger mosquito is an aggressive biter that feeds primarily during the day and has a broad host range including man, domestic and wild animals, and birds. It is a potential vector of encephalitis, dengue (all four serotypes), yellow fever and dog heartworm.
In May, it was reported Britain could be invaded by Asian tiger mosquitoes as the weather heats up.
It was claimed tiger mosquitoes have moved north across France, with more than half of the country under threat from the deadly insects.
The many empty swimming pools left uncleaned due to the Covid-19 pandemic have become fertile breeding ground for mosquitoes, which thrive in warm, moist air.
As well as malaria, mosquitoes can also transmit the zika virus – which can harm the development of unborn babies.
Mosquito expert Howard Carter, said: “I have seen the zika ones myself north of Chichester in West Sussex. And I am aware of sightings on the Kent coast.
Advertisement
“They are not here in any great, great numbers yet but in my view, it is only a matter of time.”
