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Tiger Mosquito Alert: France Faces Growing Threat
The tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) continues its relentless spread across France, posing a significant health risk. Vigilance Moustiques, the official mosquito surveillance website, has updated its map, revealing a worrying trend. While 74 departments are on red alert, indicating established and active tiger mosquito populations (up from 68 last year), the situation is even more critical in some areas.
Île-de-France on High Alert
In the Île-de-France region, seven departments remain on red alert, but the news is particularly concerning for Val-de-Marne. This department has been upgraded to the highest alert level – purple – signifying recorded cases of mosquito-borne diseases like dengue, chikungunya, and Zika within its borders. The increase in affected areas highlights the urgent need for preventative measures.
National Spread and Health Risks
Beyond Île-de-France, the threat is expanding. Three new departments (Seine-Maritime, Oise, and Moselle) joined the red alert list in 2024. Nine new departments are now under orange alert, indicating a growing presence of the tiger mosquito. A French National Assembly inquiry deemed the mosquito a "major health risk" for the coming decades, emphasizing the need for comprehensive preventative strategies.
Identifying and Protecting Yourself
Recognizing the tiger mosquito is crucial. It's small (about 5mm), black with white stripes, and flies slowly. It's most active at dawn and dusk. To protect yourself, eliminate standing water (flower pots, gutters, etc.), wear light-colored clothing, and use insect repellent. The Anses website (https://signalement-moustique.anses.fr/) allows you to report sightings, aiding in mosquito control efforts.
Staying Informed is Key
With the increasing spread of the tiger mosquito, staying informed is crucial. Regularly check the Vigilance Moustiques website for updates on affected areas and follow the advice provided by health authorities. Reporting mosquito sightings will help prevent further spread and protect public health. Your vigilance is vital in the fight against this invasive species.
