Tiger Mosquito Spreads to New Portuguese Cities, Raising Tropical Disease Concerns
The tiger mosquito, a vector for dangerous tropical diseases like dengue, has established itself in Guimaraes, northern Portugal. Medical services and biologists have confirmed its presence in the city. This confirmation means the mosquito has now settled in at least 29 Portuguese districts. It is suspected that the mosquito arrived in Guimaraes from Braga, where it was first observed in the autumn. While analyses of captured specimens have not yet found microorganisms causing tropical or other infectious diseases, officials and sanitary services are urging residents to eliminate all containers with standing water, as these provide breeding grounds for the mosquitoes. A special team has been formed in Guimaraes to monitor areas where the tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) could reproduce. Scientists from the National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge (INSA) in Lisbon highlight dengue as the most dangerous tropical disease transmitted by this mosquito, which can also carry Zika and chikungunya. 
