Denmark braces for arrival of new mosquito species

Mosquito researcher René Bødker of the University of Copenhagen warns that a new species known as the “cemetery mosquito” (kirkegårdsmyg) is poised to enter Denmark from nearby Germany, possibly as soon as tomorrow and perhaps via a camping caravan. The species is active during daylight and, while not dangerous, is expected to cause many irritating bites.

A second species, the tiger mosquito (tigermyg), which is already present in the German Rhin region, is also moving northward toward Denmark. Unlike the native swamp mosquito, the tiger mosquito can transmit diseases such as dengue fever, raising public‑health concerns. Bødker notes that preventing its spread is difficult, but removing standing water and rain‑water collectors can help reduce breeding sites.