An invasive mosquito species, Aedes aegypti, capable of transmitting tropical diseases, has been discovered breeding in homes in east London. This marks the first time the species has been identified breeding in the UK, though it has been detected on four previous occasions.
Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are typically found in tropical and subtropical regions and can transmit dengue, chikungunya, and Zika virus in areas where these infections are present. While these diseases are not considered deadly, Zika virus has been linked to serious complications during and after pregnancy.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has stated that the risk to the public is low, with no evidence that the mosquitoes in east London have caused human infections. The agency reported that control measures have been implemented to destroy larvae, and the area will continue to be monitored.
The UKHSA warned that a warming climate could lead to more incursions of invasive mosquitoes and an increased ability for them to survive in the UK. David Smith, from the charity Buglife, also noted that a rapidly warming climate is creating more favourable conditions for exotic species to establish themselves.