Luxembourg Tracks Mosquito-Tiger Without Installation: Monitoring the Mysterious Amphibian’s Passage

Published23. August 2025, 08:00

Health: Luxembourg monitors the tiger mosquito, which does not settle

The Luxembourg health authorities continue to track down the Tiger mosquito, a vector of various diseases, of which cases have been reported to the Grand Duchy.

Chikungunya, zika, dengue … The tiger mosquito is a vector of various viruses and Luxembourg, as its European neighborshunts him. If no indigenous case of these diseases was detected in Luxembourg, 19 travelers suffered from dengue in 2024, against ten in 2023 and two in 2022. And, for the first time, two cases of chikungunya and eight cases of Zika were declared last year, all linked to travel in areas where the virus circulates, indicates to Essential the Ministry of Health.

The implantation of the Tiger mosquito is strengthened in France and in the Grand Est, at our doors, but the insect (Aedes Albopictus, as scientists) “are not established in Luxembourg. He does not spend the winter there, it is only imported every summer by travelers, ”explains the Ministry of Health. His cousin Aedes Japanicus is implanted, but is a much less effective vector of viruses.

“Sporadic presence”

The health inspection, however, maintains active and passive monitoring of the tiger mosquito. Adult traps are installed at the airport and egg traps are placed at five entry points in the country, such as motorway areas, international bus stations or a campsite. Citizens can participate in surveillance via a “mosquito alert” app, available on App Store et Google Playwhich allows you to send photos of mosquitoes to report their presence to experts.

The tiger mosquito was spotted in Luxembourg for the first time in 2022. Last year, the presence of its eggs was detected 18 times between the beginning of summer and October 25, on 40% of the sites equipped with traps, “which indicates a still sporadic presence”, according to the ministry. Since the beginning of 2025, eggs have been found between June 7 and today, on 5% of equipped sites. The only adult mosquitoes reported were via the application, twice in 2024.

Precautions after a trip

An Aboriginal dengue epidemic occurred last year north of Paris. It was linked to travelers who returned sick and were stung by mosquitoes who then transmitted the virus to other people who had not traveled.

In this context, the Ministry of Health issues some recommendations, especially to people who return from travel and may have been exposed. In the event of the appearance of symptoms of illness (influenza symptoms, fever, headache, eruptions, neurological disorders …) on the return from vacation, it is advisable to consult a doctor as soon as possible.

And in the event of confirmed infection in dengue, Zika or Chikungunya, you must avoid as much as possible to be bitten by mosquitoes, to avoid spreading the disease. Doctors are invited to take into account the travel history in their diagnosis.

Are you already on WhatsApp?

Subscribe to our chain, activate the little one and you will receive a news recap every day in start of the evening.

(jw)

How does Luxembourg’s use of eDNA analysis contribute to early detection of the Asian tiger mosquito compared to customary methods?

Understanding the Asian Tiger Mosquito in Luxembourg

The Aedes albopictus, commonly known as the Asian tiger mosquito or mosquito-tiger, is an invasive species gaining a foothold in Luxembourg. Unlike native mosquito species, the tiger mosquito is aggressive and bites during the day, increasing the risk of disease transmission. Crucially, Luxembourg is employing innovative monitoring techniques to track its spread without relying on traditional, possibly disruptive installation-based methods like extensive trapping networks. This approach focuses on citizen science and environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis.

Non-Invasive Monitoring Strategies: A Deep Dive

Luxembourg’s strategy centers around leveraging existing infrastructure and public participation. Here’s a breakdown of the key methods:

Citizen Science Initiatives: Residents are actively encouraged to report mosquito sightings through dedicated online platforms and mobile apps. This provides valuable real-time data on the mosquito’s distribution. Reporting typically involves submitting photos for identification and location details.

oviposition Trap analysis (limited Installation): While avoiding widespread installation, strategically placed oviposition traps – containers designed to attract egg-laying females – are used in targeted areas. These traps are checked periodically for Aedes albopictus eggs.

Environmental DNA (eDNA) Analysis: This cutting-edge technique involves collecting water samples from potential breeding sites (e.g., stagnant water in tires, flower pot saucers, bird baths). The water is then analyzed for traces of mosquito DNA, even if no larvae or adults are present. This is a highly sensitive method for detecting the mosquito’s presence.

Temperature and Rainfall data Correlation: Researchers are analyzing historical and current weather data (temperature, rainfall) to identify environmental factors that favor mosquito breeding and spread. This predictive modeling helps focus monitoring efforts.

The Benefits of Installation-Free Monitoring

Traditional mosquito control often involves widespread insecticide spraying and extensive trapping. Luxembourg’s approach offers several advantages:

Reduced Environmental impact: Minimizing insecticide use protects beneficial insects and reduces the risk of environmental contamination.

Cost-Effectiveness: eDNA analysis and citizen science are generally less expensive than maintaining large-scale trapping networks.

Early Detection: eDNA can detect the mosquito’s presence even before populations become established, allowing for rapid response measures.

Increased Public Awareness: Citizen science initiatives engage the public and raise awareness about mosquito-borne diseases and prevention.

Data Accuracy: Combining multiple data sources (citizen reports, eDNA, weather data) provides a more complete and accurate picture of the mosquito’s distribution.

Understanding Aedes albopictus Breeding Habits

Effective monitoring relies on understanding where the mosquito-tiger breeds. Unlike manny native species, Aedes albopictus thrives in small, artificial containers holding stagnant water. Common breeding sites include:

Discarded tires

Flower pot saucers

Bird baths

Gutters

Plastic containers

Buckets

Even bottle caps!

Regularly emptying these containers is a crucial preventative measure.

Luxembourg City tourist Office & Mosquito Awareness

Interestingly, the Luxembourg City Tourist Office (https://www.vdl.lu/de/besuchen/tourismus) doesn’t currently feature specific mosquito-related details on its website. However, given the increasing prevalence of the tiger mosquito, integrating awareness campaigns into tourist information could be beneficial, notably regarding preventative measures for visitors.This could include providing information on insect repellent and advising tourists to report any unusual mosquito bites.

disease Transmission Risks & Public Health

While the mosquito-tiger is now present in Luxembourg, the risk of large-scale disease outbreaks remains relatively low. However, the mosquito is capable of transmitting several viruses, including:

Chikungunya

Dengue Fever

Zika Virus

Imported cases of these diseases are more common than locally acquired infections, but the presence of the mosquito increases the potential for local transmission. Public health authorities are actively monitoring the situation and preparing for potential outbreaks.

Practical Tips for Residents & Visitors

Eliminate Standing Water: Regularly empty and clean any containers that can hold water.

Use Insect repellent: Apply insect repellent containing DEET,picaridin,or IR3535,especially during peak biting hours (daytime).

wear Protective Clothing: Cover exposed skin with long sleeves and pants when outdoors.

Install Mosquito Nets: Use mosquito nets over beds, especially for infants and young children.

Report Sightings: Report any suspected tiger mosquito sightings to the appropriate authorities.

Be Aware of Symptoms: If you develop fever, rash, joint pain, or other flu-like symptoms after being bitten by a mosquito, consult a doctor.

future Directions in Mosquito Monitoring

Luxembourg is continually refining its monitoring strategies. Future research may focus on:

Advanced eDNA Techniques: Developing more sensitive and specific eDNA