2023-05-03 07:44:14
For a long time, the tiger mosquito only remained a threat in tropical areas. In recent years, it has been expanding its presence in mainland France, with 71 departments affected in 2022. Given the vector-borne diseases it can transmit, public health authorities have set up close monitoring of this mosquito. Explanations.
The tiger mosquito present in 71 French departments
The tiger mosquito is the vector of several diseasesas the Zikathe dengue where the chikungunya. With the rise in temperatures in mainland France, this mosquito now manages to be present and to carry out its entire life cycle in several departments. In 2022, its presence was recorded in 71 departments, i.e. 4 departments more than in 2021. Given its impact on public health, it is now the subject of close surveillance from the health authorities, over the period from 1is May to November 30 each year.
The tiger mosquito was spotted in mainland France for the first time in 2004 and quickly settled on the territory. In 2022 alone, it caused 65 indigenous cases of dengue fever. A significant figure, compared to the 48 cases recorded over the previous 10 years. The objective of the national surveillance set up is multiple:
- Know precisely the territories where the tiger mosquito is established and develops;
- Evaluate the health impact of its presence;
- Define the strategy to limit its multiplication, or even eradicate it.
Autochthonous cases of dengue fever on the rise in France
Several actors combine their efforts to monitor the tiger mosquito and coordinate the actions to be implemented: the Ministry of Health, ANSES, Public Health France and the ARS concerned. But in the end, all French people are encouraged to get involved in this system:
- On the one hand the citizens, by carrying out a ” citizen reporting » on a platform;
- On the other hand, health professionals by declaring the vector diseases linked to the tiger mosquito, after distinguishing indigenous cases or some import case (following trips to tropical areas for example).
Reporting of indigenous vector-borne diseases allows public health authorities to implement case management measures, such as disinsectization around the patient’s home, if the presence of the tiger mosquito is confirmed there. These actions require good coordination of the actors, necessary in the face of an expected increase in cases in the coming years.
Eliminate stagnant water and effectively protect against mosquitoes
Beyond monitoring the tiger mosquito, everyone is also called upon to act at their level against this vector of viral diseases. Its proliferation is made possible by the presence standing water near homes. Everyone should be vigilant to remove all standing water around their home or in their garden or to report it to the authorities if the standing water is not on their property. A simple forgotten flowerpot with its cup can allow the development of hundreds or even thousands of mosquitoes, not to mention the cans collecting rainwater without a lid!
It is also important to learn to protect yourself from mosquitoes (tiger mosquitoes, like other species of mosquitoes), by means of individual protection:
- The laying of mosquito nets at windows or above beds;
- The wearing of covering and loose clothing;
- The application of repellents on clothing, in the environment or on the skin.
People returning from travel in endemic areas should also consult at the slightest symptom suggestive of a vector-borne disease. Indeed, they can themselves contaminate a mosquito if they are bitten after returning from their trip. And this mosquito can in turn infect other people…
Published on May 9, 2018 by Julie P. Updated by Estelle B., Doctor of Pharmacy, on May 3, 2023.
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