Are tiger mosquitoes coming to Ireland?
Local authorities in France are stepping up measures to prevent the spread of the tiger mosquito, but will Ireland need to do the same?
Professor Gerry Killeen, acting research chair in Applied Pathogen Ecology at UCC, joined Sarah McInerney on Drivetime to discuss the presence of mosquitoes in Ireland.
"We've got about 12 different species," Professor Kileen explains, noting that these species primarily feed on birds and wild mammals, meaning that humans are left alone for the most part.
"Out of all the hundreds of mosquitoes on the planet, there's a small number - about a dozen - that are really good and specialised at attacking people," he continues. "The daytime biting is a giveaway; there's only really two mosquitoes in the world that will have a go at you in daylight hours, and they're both aedes."
Aedes aegypti (yellow fever mosquito) and Aedes albopictus (the tiger mosquito) are the two culprits to look out for, with both having distinct colour patterns. While Aedes aegypti is typically dark with white markings on its legs and a violin-shaped pattern on its thorax, Aedes albopictus is characterised by its black and white striped pattern.
So, is the tiger mosquito coming to Ireland?
"It wouldn't surprise me," says Professor Kileen. "One of the things that will turn these particular mosquitoes into a global problem is that their eggs are very robust."
The mosquito eggs can sustain long journeys on ships and other forms of transport. And the bad news continues: they also thrive in urban areas and can survive lower temperatures.
While Aedes aegypti (the yellow fever mosquito) need tropical and sub-tropical temperatures to thrive, the tiger mosquito originated from China and is better able to survive cold winters.
"The summer is when we have the problem with these vector-borne diseases, these viruses and parasites live in a cold-blooded mosquito, and then they actually reproduce within the mosquito, so they need warm temperatures to do that," he explains.
"That's why a lot of these diseases are considered primarily tropical diseases, but, of course, that's changing as the climate changes."
While the tiger mosquito hasn't arrived on Irish shores for now, Irish holidaymakers should be wary when travelling abroad. The ECDC (European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control) has reported a rise in mosquito-borne illnesses across the continent.
Dr Illona Duffy, Monaghan GP, joined Claire Byrne on RTÉ Radio 1 to share her advice for those tackling mosquito season.
"Number one is mosquito repellent," she insists, noting that the CDC website offers some great advice on what sprays to use at different ages or for those who are pregnant.
Covering up at dawn and in the evenings is good practice, as mosquitoes are most prevalent at these times. Wearing colourful clothes and perfumes can also attract the insects, so opt for long garments and fragrance-free products.
At night, nets can protect you from any mosquitoes lurking in your bedroom, and Dr. Duffy recommends checking out nets treated with permethrin if necessary.
Be sure to avoid areas with stagnant water - even something as small as a flower pot will attract mosquitoes - and try to seek out colder rooms as mosquitoes favour heat.
If you're prone to reacting badly to bites, speak with your GP ahead of any holidays to discuss antihistamine or steroid cream options.
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