Alarm in NRW: Asian tiger mosquito is spreading rapidly!

Alarm in NRW: Asian tiger mosquito is spreading rapidly!

The Asian tiger mosquito has taken off in North Rhine-Westphalia and is spreading rapidly. The transmission of dangerous viruses such as Dengue, Zika, Chikungunya and West Nile viruses by the little black mosquito is a topic that should not leave us in Cologne indifferent. How calf reported, evidence of this invasive species has already been found in several cities, including Bonn, Brühl and Königswinter.

What makes the Asian tiger mosquito so special? Not only is this mosquito smaller than a one-cent coin, but it also has an aggressive biting behavior that makes it potentially more dangerous than native mosquitoes. It is also active during the day, which increases the risk of being stung. A confirmed find was last reported in September in the Rhein-Sieg district in Königswinter. Another suspected case in Meckenheim is currently being examined by the health department WDR notes.

A growing threat

Dengue fever, which is transmitted by the Asian tiger mosquito, is considered one of the fastest spreading tropical diseases worldwide. The risk of infection in North Rhine-Westphalia is currently assessed as very low. However, the concern is not unfounded: there have already been cases of infection in other European countries such as Italy, France and Spain. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports an eightfold increase in annual dengue cases since 2000 and points to climate change as a factor that increases the risk of infectious diseases, including in Germany. Deutschlandfunk highlights that the incubation period for dengue fever is four to seven days and symptoms can range from high fever to skin rashes.

The causes of the spread of tiger mosquitoes are clearly defined: climate change and international travel and freight traffic play a decisive role. The mosquito eggs arrive in Europe by cargo, usually via seaports and airports. Many a driver may have unknowingly brought a breeding ground of tiger mosquitoes into their home garden when stopping at a motorway rest area.

Help from the population

In order to counteract the mosquitoes, the health authorities in North Rhine-Westphalia are implementing monitoring programs and calling on citizens to take action. Eliminating breeding grounds, such as standing water in flower pots or rain barrels, is at the top of the list. Suspicious mosquitoes should be reported to the “Mosquito Atlas” in order to keep a better eye on the spread.

The issue of the Asian tiger mosquito will probably remain with us for a long time. Health experts recommend taking precautionary measures to protect yourself and those around you. Climate change is coming, and with it comes new challenges that we have to face - including here in Cologne.