The tiger mosquito can transmit dangerous pathogens and has already been detected in Berlin and Bavaria. The State Office in Berlin gives tips on protection.
Kassel – For years, the Asian tiger mosquito has been spreading in Germany. The animal is considered the main carrier of the dangerous dengue fever. Bill Gates called them the “world’s deadliest animal” in 2014. The state office in Berlin has now provided tips for protection against the mosquito.
In addition to dengue fever, the Asian tiger mosquito can also transmit Chikungunya and Zika viruses. These viruses are not widespread in Germany – infected returnees could, however, introduce them. In Germany, experts detected the first specimens of the tropical mosquito more than ten years ago. The fight against an uncontrolled spread of the Asian tiger mosquito in Germany* will probably keep experts busy for a long time.
Asian tiger mosquito is spreading in Germany – What experts recommend for protection
According to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), mosquitoes suitable for spreading the dengue pathogen have been found in Germany. However, the climatic conditions have so far been unsuitable for transmissions. Tropical viruses of this type only multiply well at temperatures that have rarely been reached in Germany, even in summer. Italy, southern France and Greece are currently the hotspots for possible outbreaks of Zika, Dengue and Chikungunya.
When it comes to protection, experts recommend particularly conventional means: long, tight clothing and insect spray are effective means against the Asian tiger mosquito. Insect nets also offer protection against the pests. Garden owners should dry out or cover breeding sites on the home plot. This could be rain barrels, water buckets, bird baths, watering cans, flower vases and plant bowls – or tarpaulins, rubbish and clogged drains.
How garden owners can control the Asian tiger mosquito
The removal of breeding waters is important for control. “It should be checked everywhere and again and again whether open vessels of any kind in which water can collect are necessary in the garden,” it says.
Insects living in natural garden ponds, such as dragonflies and water beetles, reduced mosquito larvae. Newts, salamanders, frogs and toads eat adult mosquitoes and their larvae. There is no preventive protection with medication. (jfw)
