The Asian tiger mosquito is feared as a carrier of serious diseases. Now it has been observed for the first time in Innsbruck. The city must take steps now to be prepared if the virus spreads.
In total, about 50 different species of mosquitoes have appeared in Austria so far. A very feared species is the Asian tiger mosquito. As an exotic and alien mosquito, it increases the risk of spreading (sub)tropical infectious diseases such as West Nile fever, dengue, Zika virus infection or chikungunya fever. Most diseases cannot be transmitted by house mosquitoes.
Location in the west of the capital
The city council of Innsbruck is certainly alarmed. Following a report at the end of August, authorities say there is no doubt that an Asian tiger mosquito has been spotted for the first time in the Tyrol capital. “The location was near Technikerstrasse,” reads a press release.
There are fears of spread
“We must be prepared for the spread of tropical mosquito species in the Innsbruck area. The tiger mosquito has been observed in Austria for several years, especially in Styria. With the significant increase in the number of annual warm days and tropical nights, there are always ideal living conditions for tropical mosquitoes in Tyrol,” explains Ulrich Schweigmann, head of the city’s health department.
Supervision and control
According to the report, the city is now setting up a mosquito monitoring system. “Through close cooperation with AGES and the Tyrolean State Medical Directorate, we are creating a solid basis for taking the necessary protective measures and preventing potential health risks,” emphasizes BM Johannes Anzengruber. The aim is to obtain information on the distribution of mosquito species and, in case of emergency, to be prepared for tropical diseases such as dengue fever, West Nile fever or malaria, which can be transmitted by these mosquitoes.
It’s better to report than to fight against yourself
The private use of insect sprays and other insect poisons is strongly discouraged, as they are often ineffective, pollute the environment and can also be harmful to health. The authorities refer to the free app ‘Mosquito Alert’. This allows the population to photograph and send photos of the mosquitoes found, as well as the mosquitoes themselves, for identification. In this way, effective measures can be taken quickly.
Source: Krone
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