Dangerous tiger mosquito appears in Hungary
The Asian tiger mosquito first appeared in Hungary five years ago. Unfortunately, the species was identified this summer as well. It can spread 22 types of viruses, including yellow fever and the Zika virus.
Hvg reports that a particular type of mosquito appeared in Hungary that can spread at least 22 types of diseases.
The mosquito is known as the Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus). The insect is called a tiger mosquito for its striped appearance, which resembles that of the tiger or the zebra.
This mosquito is native to the tropical and subtropical areas of Southeast Asia. However, thanks to the international transport of goods, the species spread to many countries all over the world.
Its eggs are tolerant to the cold and dry environments, and can even tolerate snow and temperatures under freezing. Thus, the eggs are easily transported from Asia, for example, on the inside of huge truck tires.
The Asian mosquito first appeared in Europe in Albany in 1979. Unfortunately, today, the species can be found everywhere all over the continent.
The Asian tiger mosquito is characterized by the white or silver bands on its legs and body, resembling a tiger or a zebra. Thus, it is relatively easy to distinguish it from other mosquito species.
This mosquito is an epidemiologically important vector for the transmission of many viruses, including the yellow fever virus, dengue fever, and Chikungunya fever, as well as several filarial nematodes such as Dirofilaria immitis. Aedes albopictus is capable of hosting the Zika virus and is considered a potential vector for Zika transmission among humans.
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The Asian tiger mosquito first appeared in Hungary in 2014 (near Baja), then, it re-appeared a year later along the Southern borders of the country.
These mosquitos are usually brought into the country during the summer season. Luckily, they cannot establish a permanent population in the country, and they are not likely to survive winter.
The Asian tiger mosquito bites not only humans, but pets, wild animals, and even birds, amphibian and reptiles.
These mosquitos are particularly dangerous due to the many diseases they carry, which can be transported to humans and animals too. They can spread 22 types of viruses, including the yellow fever virus, dengue fever, Chikungunya fever and the Zika virus.
Source: www.hvg.hu; Wikipedia