The UK has recently detected two species of disease-carrying mosquitoes, Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, at seaports, airports, and transport hubs, raising concerns about potential disease transmission.

These mosquitoes are not yet established in the UK, but rising temperatures and milder winters due to climate change are making urban areas like London more suitable habitats, facilitating their northward spread.

The spread of these species is linked to increased global travel, trade, climate change, and land use changes, which all contribute to their movement into new regions.

While current models suggest large outbreaks are unlikely due to climate constraints, the presence of these mosquitoes poses a risk of local disease transmission if populations become established.

Each detection has prompted enhanced local surveillance and control efforts, with no evidence of established populations so far, indicating these were isolated incursions.

Maintaining robust monitoring networks and citizen science projects is crucial for early detection and response, especially as climate change may facilitate further northward spread.

Authorities emphasize that proactive surveillance and early detection are vital to prevent the spread of these invasive mosquitoes and related diseases in the UK.

Collaboration with local authorities, landowners, and partner organizations is essential for effective early detection, containment, and prevention efforts.

Surveillance systems, including regular monitoring at ports and transport hubs, are key tools in early detection and managing the threat.

Preventive measures such as using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and sleeping under mosquito nets are recommended, especially when traveling to areas with known dengue risk.

These prevention strategies are particularly important in regions where disease-carrying mosquitoes are present or suspected.

Infections like dengue typically appear 4 to 10 days after a mosquito bite, with symptoms ranging from high fever and headache to severe complications like bleeding, which require urgent medical attention.