Two species of mosquito capable of spreading yellow fever, dengue and zika have been detected in the UK, raising concerns that climate change is increasing the risk of the tropical pests becoming established.
Officials from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said that Aedes aegypti, also known as the yellow fever mosquito, and Aedes albopictus, known as the tiger mosquito, were found in surveillance traps in England in 2023 and 2024.
In a study published in the journal PLOS Global Public Health, they warn that milder winters may allow the insects to survive in northern Europe.
Historically, these mosquitoes were confined to tropical and subtropical regions, but Aedes albopictus has already established populations across parts of southern and central Europe, demonstrating an ability to adapt to more temperate climates.
Both species are important vectors of dangerous viruses including yellow fever, dengue, chikungunya and zika, making them a significant public health concern.
