Tiger Mosquitoes Plague Malaga Province
Malaga province has been singled out as the region in Andalusia most impacted by the perilous tiger mosquito. This year, a staggering 82 individuals have been bitten by tiger mosquitoes in the province, a figure nearly quadruple that of 2022, which saw 22 people bitten.
Global Spread of the Tiger Mosquito
The tiger mosquito, scientifically known as Aedes albopictus, originates from the tropical and subtropical regions of Southeast Asia. However, it has now spread to numerous countries worldwide. Spain, in particular, has witnessed a significant surge in the number of these specimens, which are capable of transmitting viruses such as dengue, zika, and chikungunya.
Worsening Situation Due to Globalisation and Rising Temperatures
Spain’s National Association of Environmental Health Businesses (ANECPLA) has issued a warning that the situation is likely to deteriorate further due to globalisation and the current rise in temperature. Jorge Galvan, the General Director of ANECPLA, has urged vigilance as Spain serves as the entry point for several species of mosquitoes and other invasive species, which can have detrimental effects on public health.
Most Affected Areas in Malaga and Spain
Within the Malaga province, Torremolinos is the city most affected by the tiger mosquito, followed by Malaga and Marbella. On a national scale, Barcelona, Alicante, and Valencia are the cities with the largest population of this species.
Challenges in Controlling the Tiger Mosquito Population
According to ANECPLA, controlling the tiger mosquito population is a daunting task as these insects can easily adapt to survive in adverse conditions. However, they require humid spaces for reproduction, with females laying their eggs on the surface of water accumulations.
Preventive Measures Against Tiger Mosquitoes
To curb the reproduction of this insect, several measures can be implemented. These include removing water from pot plates, regularly changing the water in plastic swimming pools, maintaining clean gutters and drains, and frequently changing the water in pets’ water dishes.
Related News
For more information, read about the growing population of mosquitoes that can transmit the West Nile virus (WNV) in three Andalucian municipalities, the pest control unit’s efforts to control tiger mosquitoes in Valencia, and the spraying initiative to prevent mass hatching of mosquitoes on Spain’s Costa Blanca.
