An invasive mosquito capable of spreading serious diseases has been found breeding in the UK for the first time.
Aedes aegypti, an invasive mosquito species known to transmit viruses such as dengue, Zika virus, and chikungunya, was discovered in east London at residential properties, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
This marks the fourth time the species has been detected in the UK, but the first instance of confirmed breeding.
Do these invasive mosquitoes pose a threat in the UK?
Head of medical entomology and zoonoses ecology at UKHSA, Dr Jolyon Medlock, said: "While Aedes aegypti can transmit diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika virus in countries where these infections are circulating, the risk to the public from this finding is assessed as very low.
"There is no evidence that these mosquitoes have caused human infections and, importantly, to date, there is no evidence of the mosquitoes or larvae being detected in nearby public areas."
The insects and their larvae were found through the UKHSA’s Mosquito Watch scheme.
Control measures have since been put in place to destroy the larvae.
Aedes aegypti is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions and is not considered capable of surviving long-term in the UK’s cooler climate, despite recent heatwaves.
Dr Medlock said: "Despite evidence of breeding in this local area and the recent heatwaves, the species is not established in the UK and cannot survive long-term in the typical UK climate, which is too cold overall."
He explained that the mosquitoes likely arrived through accidental importation.
Dr Medlock said: "Invasive mosquitoes can hitchhike in vehicles, baggage, and imported plants, and if they find a suitable climate, can survive."
UKHSA has increased surveillance and trapping in the area and warned that climate change could lead to more frequent sightings of invasive mosquito species in the future.
The public is advised to reduce mosquito breeding by removing standing water from gardens, including in buckets, containers, and plant pots.
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