[CLSTR]
< Back to situations

Monitor this situation.

[SITUATION] · [ACTIVE] · [HEALTH]

2 clusters · 11 sources · 7 days · First seen · Last updated

Aedes aegypti mosquito breeding in London

Overview

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed the first instance of the invasive Aedes aegypti mosquito breeding at residential properties in East London. While the species has been detected in the United Kingdom previously, this discovery marks the first time larvae have been found reproducing in the country.

Authorities suggest the mosquitoes likely arrived through the accidental importation of plants, baggage, or vehicles from tropical regions. Although the species is known to transmit viruses such as dengue, Zika, and chikungunya, the UKHSA assesses the immediate risk to the public as “very low,” noting no evidence of human infections or larvae in public areas.

In response, the UKHSA has launched an eradication programme and increased surveillance and trapping efforts. Experts noted that while the UK climate is generally too cold for the species to survive long-term, rising global temperatures and the movement of goods may lead to more frequent incursions. Officials have advised the public to assist by removing standing water from gardens and outdoor containers to reduce potential breeding sites.

Entities

Jolyon Medlock · UK Health Security Agency · University of Oxford · Aedes aegypti · European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control

Timeline

  1. 1 day ago

    [HEALTH] 3 sources
    Aedes aegypti mosquitoes found breeding in East London

    The UK Health Security Agency is working to eradicate Aedes aegypti mosquitoes found breeding in East London, marking the first recorded instance of the disease-carrying species breeding in the UK.

  2. 8 days ago

    [HEALTH] 8 sources
    Invasive Aedes aegypti mosquito found breeding in London

    The invasive Aedes aegypti mosquito, capable of spreading dengue and Zika, has been found breeding in east London for the first time, though health officials assess the public risk as very low.

Sources

acordacidade.com.br · cebudailynews.inquirer.net · healthcaremea.com · helensburghadvertiser.co.uk · hexham-courant.co.uk · londragazete.com · nisuscorp.com · thepharmacist.co.uk · thepodiummedia.com · travelradar.aero · yourweather.co.uk