Asian tiger mosquito: alarming dengue cases in Italy and Austria

Asian tiger mosquito: alarming dengue cases in Italy and Austria

The Asian tiger mosquito, once only one resident of the tropics, is increasingly spreading in Europe and has already gained a foothold in Austria. This invasive way, which was currently native to Southeast Asia, has found its way to us over the years through climate change, which leads to milder temperatures. This means that the conditions for reproduction and survival of the mosquito in many regions of Europe, including Austria, have become favorable.

The latest developments in Italy are particularly alarming. The mosquitoes there have triggered a worrying current outbreak from dengue fever, a tropical illness that has previously been mostly found in warmer climate zones. 124 new cases were reported in the Italian coastal city of Fano, which represents the worst dengue outbreak in the country's history. A total of 625 confirmed dengue cases in Italy from January 1 to October 8, 2024, according to the information from the Italian Institute for Health.

growing threat in Austria

The situation is becoming increasingly serious in Austria. Documented in all federal states since 2012. According to the A MTES Society for Epidemiological and Health Research (Arges), there are even fixed populations in the cities of Vienna and Graz that can survive winter. The new discovery of this mosquito in August 2024 in Innsbruck is worrying. So far, however, there has been no confirmed case of a person who has infected itself in Austria. Nevertheless, there is a risk that this could happen in the future.

The Asian tiger mosquito is a possible transmitter of over 20 different pathogens, including Dengue, Zika and Chikungunya, which are not transferable from local mosquitoes. This mosquito is not a transmitter by nature - however, if it stabs an infected person, it can transfer the pathogen to a healthy person in a following stitch. The insect can be recognized by its striped black and white striped pattern, especially on the hind legs, and is active during the day, which distinguishes it from the domestic house mosquito, which preferably stabs at dusk or night.

In order to support the spread and determination of this type of mosquito, citizens can report sightings of the Asian tiger mosquito about the free "Mosquito Alert" app. The sent images are examined by experts and documented finds appear anonymously on a publicly accessible card.

With the increase in temperatures in Europe and the associated climate change, the problem of the Asian tiger mosquito and its potential health risks is becoming increasingly urgent. The population is asked to be vigilant and report possible occurrences in particular in light -flooded urban areas where the mosquitoes feel comfortable in order to document and combat the spread. In view of the serious situation, it remains to be seen whether further measures are necessary to protect public health and to keep the spread of these insects under control. Information on the latest developments and fighting these mosquitoes can also be found in a current report on www.tips.at .