Spain is facing a new challenge this year: the increasing number of dangerous mosquitoes. These tiny creatures, which are spreading rapidly, are a growing threat to the health and well-being of the people and visitors of Spain. In this article we will look at the mosquitoes that can spread dangerous diseases and where the Consumers and Consumers Association OCU for warning.
In recent years, Spain has seen several species of mosquitoes that can transmit potentially dangerous diseases. This attack of alien mosquito species largely due to the effects of climate change and increased global mobility. But what are these mosquitoes and what diseases can they spread?
Aedes aegypti: spreader of Dengue, Chikungunya and Zika
The Aedes aegypti mosquito, also known as the ‘yellow fever mosquito’, is one of the most famous mosquito species in the world. This mosquito is capable of transmitting diseases such as dengue, chikungunya and Zika, which can cause serious health problems.
The Aedes aegypti mosquito has already been found in some regions of Spain, including Catalonia, the region of Valencia and Andalusia. Experts warn that this mosquito will continue to spread in the coming years, partly as a result of global warming.
Infection with the dengue virus can lead to high fever, headache, muscle pain and rash. In severe cases, it can even be life threatening. Chikungunya also causes high fever, as well as severe joint and muscle pain. The Zika virus can cause serious birth defects in pregnant women, such as microcephaly.
Aedes japonicus: carrier of Dengue and Japanese Encephalitis
Another species of concern is the Aedes japonicus mosquito, which can transmit diseases such as dengue and Japanese encephalitis. This mosquito has already been seen in some northern regions of Spain, such as Galicia and Asturias.
The mosquito Aedes japonicus has slowly but surely spread throughout northern Spain in recent years. Although numbers are limited for now, experts fear that the population will increase as a result of climate warming.
Infection with the dengue virus can lead to high fever, headache, muscle pain and rash. In severe cases, it can even be life threatening. Japanese encephalitis, on the other hand, can affect the central nervous system and in some cases lead to permanent brain damage or even death.
Culex pipiens: carrier of West Nile Virus Fever and Filariasis
The Culex pipiens mosquito, also known as the ‘common housefly’, is another cause of concern. This mosquito can transmit diseases such as West Nile virus, Nile fever and filariasis.
The mosquito Culex pipiens is a species native to Spain and is generally found throughout the country. However, in recent years the population has increased significantly, partly due to the effects of climate change.
Infection with West Nile virus can produce flu-like symptoms, but in severe cases also encephalitis and even death. Filariasis is a parasitic infection that can lead to severe inflammation and disability.
Anopheles: Malaria carrier
The Anopheles mosquito, also known as the ‘malaria mosquito’, is a species that has historically been a major threat to public health in Spain. Although malaria in Spain is largely under control, this mosquito is still a threat.
The Anopheles mosquito is a native species in Spain, but its population has decreased significantly in recent decades due to better sanitary conditions and control measures, among other things.
Malaria infection can lead to fever, chills, headache and other flu-like symptoms. In severe cases, it can even be life threatening.
Aedes albopictus: the infamous tiger mosquito
Finally, there is the Aedes albopictus mosquito, also known as the ‘tiger mosquito’. This mosquito has spread widely in recent years in some regions of northern Spain, including Catalonia and Navarre.
The tiger mosquito comes from Asia, but over the years it has established itself in different parts of Europe, including Spain. The population is increasing, especially in the north of the country.
Tiger mosquitoes can transmit diseases such as dengue, chikungunya and yellow fever. The symptoms are similar to those of the Aedes aegypti mosquito, with high fever, headache and muscle aches.
High in mosquito nuisance
In addition to the increasing number of dangerous mosquito species, Spain has a significantly higher mosquito concern during the summer months. This peak period is an additional challenge to public health and the well-being of the population. Various factors contribute to an increased mosquito problem in the summer in Spain:
- Climate change: A warming climate ensures that mosquitoes can reproduce faster and stay active longer.
- Tourism: The large crowds during the summer months introduce additional breeding grounds for mosquitoes, such as standing water in swimming pools and water barrels.
- Urban Development: The expansion of urban areas creates new habitats for mosquitoes, such as stagnant water reservoirs and damp places.
2024-05-11 14:34:14
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