Dengue Mosquito Covilhã – Detection and Risks
- The Local Health Unit (ULS) of Cova da Beira has issued a public health alert following the detection of the Aedes albopictus mosquito, commonly known as the tiger...
- Aedes albopictus is an invasive mosquito species originally from Southeast Asia.
- The primary concern with the presence of this mosquito is its ability to transmit several viral diseases, including:
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Aedes albopictus Mosquito Detected in Covilhã, Portugal – Public Health Alert
Table of Contents
Published September 25, 2023, 08:13 AM
Overview
The Local Health Unit (ULS) of Cova da Beira has issued a public health alert following the detection of the Aedes albopictus mosquito, commonly known as the tiger mosquito, in the municipality of Covilhã, Castelo Branco district, Portugal. This mosquito species is capable of transmitting diseases such as dengue, Zika, and chikungunya.
Mosquito Species and Disease Transmission
Aedes albopictus is an invasive mosquito species originally from Southeast Asia. It has spread rapidly across Europe and other parts of the world in recent decades, facilitated by the trade of used tires and other goods that can hold water. The mosquito is a daytime feeder and bites both humans and animals.
The primary concern with the presence of this mosquito is its ability to transmit several viral diseases, including:
- Dengue Fever: A flu-like illness that can develop into a severe and possibly fatal form.
- Zika Virus: Can cause birth defects if contracted during pregnancy.
- Chikungunya: Causes fever and severe joint pain.
While no locally transmitted cases of these diseases have been reported in Portugal to date, the presence of the vector (the mosquito) increases the risk.
Public Health Recommendations
The ULS of Cova da Beira is urging residents of Covilhã to take the following measures to reduce mosquito breeding and avoid bites:
- Eliminate Standing Water: Regularly empty and clean containers that can hold water, such as flower pots, buckets, tires, and gutters.
- Cover Water Storage Containers: Ensure that water storage containers are tightly covered.
- Use Mosquito Repellent: Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535 to exposed skin and clothing.
- Wear Protective Clothing: wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors, especially during peak mosquito activity hours.
- install Mosquito Nets: use mosquito nets over beds, especially for infants and young children.
Portugal and Invasive Mosquitoes
The Aedes albopictus mosquito was frist detected in Portugal in 2017, and its presence has been expanding gradually.Monitoring programs are in place to track the mosquito’s distribution and assess the risk of disease transmission.The Portuguese Directorate-General for Health (DGS) provides guidance and resources on mosquito control and prevention.
In 2022, the presence of the mosquito was also reported in Alentejo (Mértola), indicating a widening geographic range within the country. Lusa