An expert has issued an urgent warning over the presence of a specific type of mosquito at this summer’s Paris Olympic Games , believing they could bring a dangerous virus to the UK. Bite prevention expert Howard Carter has urged travellers to stay safe amid what he says could become a “super-spreader event”. According to Mr Carter, those visiting France for the games could be exposing themselves to mosquitoes carrying dengue fever.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has confirmed that an invasive species of mosquito - the tiger mosquito - has been found in 13 EU countries. This has been linked to a rise in dengue fever in Europe, which is typically found in tropical areas. Due to rising temperatures, the bugs have been found as far north as Paris, with authorities monitoring and trapping the insect.
Since 2016, tiger mosquitoes have also been detected in the UK, prompting concern from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). Mr Carter explained: “The Paris Olympics could become what is termed a ‘super-spreader event’. “Dengue fever is on our doorstep, European cases have dramatically increased.
“Asian tiger mosquitoes that have the capacity to carry the deadly virus are currently in the UK.” He warned that travellers should take precautions to stay safe. “It is more important this summer than ever before that UK travellers take insect repellent with them,” Mr Carter said.
“Aside from creating the avoidable spread of disease, i.