Yellow fever mosquito discovered in Sweden and UK

The yellow fever mosquito (Aedes aegypti) has been detected in Sweden and the United Kingdom, marking significant findings for northern Europe. In Malmö, Sweden, a female specimen was identified in a trap as part of a monitoring mission by the National Veterinary Institute (SVA).

In the United Kingdom, the species has been found breeding in residential areas of east London. While the mosquito has been observed in the UK previously, this discovery marks the first instance of active reproduction within the country.

Experts suggest the mosquitoes likely arrived via imported goods, luggage, or vehicles. Although the species is known to transmit viruses such as dengue, Zika, chikungunya, and yellow fever, the SVA assesses the risk of disease spread in Sweden as extremely low. Researchers noted that because the species requires heat, it is unlikely to establish permanent populations in northern latitudes due to winter conditions.