In the summer of 2004, two decades ago, one of the major media stories was the presence of a mosquito with black stripes that was larger than the native mosquito and caused more painful bites. Originating from Southeast Asia, Sant Cugat del Vallès was the first place in Catalonia where it was detected, almost twenty years after it entered Europe camouflaged in trucks transporting tires. Little by little, the insect has now become a integrate into everyday life every time the thermometer gets hot, to the point that it feels like the tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) has become the lord and master of the entire country. A study published this Thursday by a Catalan team in the journal Insects, The study, which includes the first map of invasive mosquitoes, indicates that this species has colonized some 780 of the 947 existing Catalan municipalities. The study is based on the analysis of data collected by both technicians and citizens who have reported the presence of the mosquito through the application. Mosquito Alert, a citizen science project that brings together around forty scientific entities, including the CSIC, the UPF, and the Blanes Center for Advanced Studies (CEAB).

What do dengue, Zika virus, Chikungunya fever, and West Nile fever have in common? arbovirusThese diseases, common in endemic areas of America, Africa, and Asia, have reached Catalonia in recent years mainly due to intercontinental travelers and the presence of the tiger mosquito and the common mosquito. If a case is suspected by a doctor, the Department of Health recommends taking extreme precautions. avoid the bite of these insects for two weeks after the first symptoms appear.

Summer and mosquitoes go hand in hand and getting bitten is practically inevitable. Although bites are not serious, they are usually very annoying, and prevention, as always, is key. However, it is important to be aware that most remedies against mosquitoes are not all that effective.

This summer will undoubtedly be a mosquito season. The frequent rainfall in Catalonia during spring, alongside high temperatures, will lead to a high number of insects. On the other hand, the heat will also mean cockroaches, rats and other rodents. The Catalan Association of Environmental Health Companies (Adepap) emphasises that in most cases (especially mosquitoes and rodents) these are species that transmit viruses and diseases, and therefore recommends taking preventive measures and relying on specialised professionals to combat pests and carry out disinfections.