Tiger Mosquitoes Wintering in Belgium: Dengue Risk Rises, Blood Donations Potentially Affected – Breaking News
Belgium is facing a growing public health concern as the invasive tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) is no longer just a summer visitor. New data reveals the mosquito is successfully overwintering in areas like Hoegaarden, Walloon Brabant, raising the specter of locally transmitted tropical diseases like dengue, chikungunya, and zika. This isn’t just a future threat; it’s happening now, and could even impact blood donation availability.
From Vacation Souvenir to Resident Threat
For years, the tiger mosquito has been hitching rides into Europe, often arriving as “clandestine passengers” in vehicles returning from southern countries. But the situation is evolving. Recent field inspections, particularly following observations in 2022 and 2024, confirm the mosquito is now surviving the Belgian winter. “Tigers mosquitoes are constantly entering the country via traffic axes, and the local climate promotes their winter survival,” explains Wim Van Bortel, an entomologist at the Institute of Tropical Medicine. This isn’t a sudden invasion, but a slow, steady expansion, primarily driven by human and goods transportation – especially along major highways like the E411.
Highway Hotspots & the Impact on Blood Supplies
The Aische-en-Refail car park on the E411, near Perwez, was identified as one of seven highway rest stops where tiger mosquito eggs were found during the summer of 2023. This highlights the role of road traffic in spreading the insect. While no tiger mosquitoes have been reported in Wapi as of early 2025, the trend is clear. And this expansion has a potentially overlooked consequence: blood donation shortages. The Red Cross is actively studying new tests for dengue and chikungunya, suggesting an anticipation of increased local transmission and the need to screen blood donations for these viruses. A rise in cases could lead to temporary restrictions on donations from individuals who have recently traveled to affected areas, exacerbating existing blood supply challenges.
Why This Matters: Dengue, Chikungunya, and Zika in Belgium?
The tiger mosquito is a highly efficient vector for several viruses. “It is essential to monitor the presence and spread of the species in Belgium, which can be a vector of virus such as dengue, chikungunya and zika,” emphasizes epidemiologist Javiera Rebolledo Romero of Sciences Po. While these diseases are currently rare in Belgium, the establishment of the tiger mosquito significantly increases the risk of local outbreaks. Dengue fever, characterized by high fever, severe headache, and muscle pain, can be debilitating. Chikungunya causes fever and severe joint pain, and Zika can pose risks to pregnant women. The goal isn’t eradication – that’s unrealistic – but containment and delaying local transmission.
What You Can Do: A Citizen’s Guide to Mosquito Control
You don’t need to be an expert to help. Simple actions can make a big difference. During the winter months, focus on eliminating potential breeding grounds by emptying and cleaning artificial stagnant water sources like flower pot saucers, gutters, and rainwater tanks, removing any eggs glued to the sides. From May onwards, regularly eliminate standing water from terraces and gardens. These are prime mosquito breeding sites. Consider these tips from insect specialists: ensure proper drainage, cover water storage containers, and use mosquito netting where appropriate.
Reporting Sightings & Staying Informed
If you spot a tiger mosquito, don’t ignore it. Report it immediately via the surveillancemousts.be platform. Your contribution helps track the mosquito’s spread and inform public health strategies. The situation is dynamic, and staying informed is crucial. This isn’t just about avoiding a bite; it’s about protecting public health and ensuring the continued availability of vital resources like blood donations. The fight against the tiger mosquito is a collective effort, and every action, no matter how small, contributes to a safer and healthier Belgium.
As the tiger mosquito continues to adapt and expand its range within Belgium, proactive measures and vigilant monitoring are paramount. The convergence of climate change, increased travel, and efficient vector species like the tiger mosquito demands a sustained and collaborative response to safeguard public health and mitigate potential disruptions to essential services.
