UK holidaymakers are being alerted to a potentially lethal disease following the discovery of insects at two popular Spanish locations. Tiger mosquitoes have been found on both Mallorca and Minorca islands, prompting officials to deploy helicopters for pesticide distribution in an attempt to eradicate them.
These aggressive mosquitoes can be easily distinguished from other species by their stripes. They are carriers of yellow fever, dengue, and Zika, which can lead to birth defects. Their bites are more painful than those of European mosquitoes and can result in severe swelling, scarring, and occasionally infection.
There are concerns that changing climate conditions are facilitating the spread of these mosquitoes, as increased heat and humidity allow them to thrive further north in Europe. Experts have warned that the upcoming Olympics in Paris could see diseases spread by these mosquitoes. In some instances, severe dengue fever can be fatal. Women who contract dengue fever during pregnancy may transmit the virus to their baby during childbirth.