As the warmer months begin, the number of mosquitoes also increases. Because of their buzzing and their itchy bites, the small insects are particularly annoying. However, if it is a tiger mosquito, illnesses can even result. In addition to the Zika virus and yellow fever, this mosquito also transmits dengue fever – and cases are increasing in Germany.
Tiger mosquito could spread dengue fever
According to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), almost 600 infections with the tropical disease were reported by April 18 of this year. Those affected probably became infected while traveling in South and Southeast Asia or South and Central America. In Brazil alone there were more than four million cases by the 14th calendar week.
See in the Statista graphic the number of dengue cases in Germany:
Infographic: Statista
But thanks to the tiger mosquito, infection with dengue fever could soon also be possible in our latitudes. Because of climate change, they also feel comfortable here; there are already several established populations in Baden-Württemberg. Even further south, in Italy, cases of dengue infections are increasing.
According to the RKI, most dengue virus infections are symptom-free or extremely mild. “In a very small proportion of those affected, a severe form occurs, which can present itself three to seven days after the first symptoms appear with severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, rapid breathing, bleeding mucous membranes, vomiting blood, exhaustion or restlessness,” said the authority .
In order to avoid infection, travelers should, above all, protect themselves well from mosquitoes. Mosquito sprays, mosquito nets and long clothing can help.