With the arrival of autumn and climate change extending periods of mild temperatures, experts cited by RTP warn of the silent expansion of a species of invasive insect in Portugal, which is increasingly worrying public health authorities: the tiger mosquito.
In Portugal, the presence of this insect has been growing consistently in recent years, and the trend will continue in 2025. The tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus), known for being a vector of diseases such as dengue, zika and chikungunya, has been detected in several areas of the country, especially on the coast and in the most populated urban areas.
Tight monitoring at the Ricardo Jorge Institute
The National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge (INSA) leads the surveillance of this invasive species, responsible for collecting and analyzing samples at strategic points. Specialized technicians monitor traps spread throughout the territory, with the aim of early detecting the presence of the mosquito and assessing its population density.
The data collected makes it possible to trace the geographic and temporal evolution of the species, as well as to anticipate potential outbreaks of diseases transmitted by it. This vigilance is crucial to implement preventive measures and reduce the risk of transmission.
A small but dangerous insect
Originally from Southeast Asia, the tiger mosquito has an easily recognizable appearance, according to the same source: dark body with white stripes and striped legs. Unlike other species, it is active during the day and tends to bite several times in the same period, which increases the probability of virus transmission.
Its reproductive cycle also facilitates expansion: just a small amount of stagnant water, such as in a plant dish or an abandoned tire, is enough for the eggs to hatch and give rise to new generations in a few days.
Diseases that concern authorities
Although Portugal has not yet recorded significant outbreaks of dengue or Zika associated with the tiger mosquito, the increasing presence of this invasive insect species increases the risk of transmission if viruses are introduced through infected travelers.
In European countries such as France and Italy, indigenous cases of dengue have already occurred, a sign that the threat is real and could also materialize on national territory, according to the same source.
Health authorities remind us that the best form of prevention is environmental control. Eliminating stagnant water points, cleaning outdoor containers and protecting homes with mosquito nets are simple but effective measures to stop mosquito reproduction.
Importance of community surveillance
The fight against tiger mosquitoes does not depend solely on the authorities. Citizen collaboration is essential to limit its spread. Whenever the presence of the insect or suspected breeding sites is detected, an alert must be made to local authorities or through official surveillance platforms, according to .
With the climate becoming increasingly favorable to its reproduction and globalization facilitating the spread of viruses, the presence of the tiger mosquito in Portugal is a reality that requires continuous surveillance and preventive behavior. Early action today can prevent serious disease outbreaks tomorrow.
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