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In France, several cases of West Nile virus infection have been found for the first time that were contracted in the country itself. Experts warn of the increase in dangerous mosquito species in the country due to the climate crisis.
At the beginning of September, the counter stands at 8 possible or confirmed infections. In addition, four cases of infection with the dreaded Usutu virus, which can lead to serious illnesses, such as meningitis, have been reported in the southwest of France.
Mosquito specialist Anna-Bella Failloux explains opposite France Info that the increase is also a result of improved detection. “It does not immediately mean that there are more than before, but we are sure that the climate crisis contributes to the explosion among certain mosquito species and with it the diseases they spread.” Due to the higher temperatures, the mosquitoes are able to reproduce faster. The West Nile and Usutu viruses are spread by mosquitoes other than the tiger mosquito, which has been on the rise for some time and spreads dengue fever, among other things.
The mosquitoes have been present in the Mediterranean for some time, but are now also establishing themselves in other parts of the republic, such as the Atlantic coast, meldt The Local. Control operations are being carried out, but the problem is that the mosquitoes can quickly become resistant.
The French authorities do not – yet – see the Usutu virus as a threat, unlike the West Nile virus.
The NVWA calls on holidaymakers to thoroughly check their car and caravan for mosquitoes before driving home. Campers can especially check whether they have flower pots, trays or watering cans in which rainwater has been standing. It may contain tiger mosquito eggs that hatch later, says Stroo of the NVWA.
2023-09-07 12:42:48
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