4 tips to combat the tiger mosquito that is growing very quickly in Burgundy-Franche-Comté

The regional health agency of Burgundy-Franche-Comté warns about the spread of the tiger mosquito. The insect is a “public health priority” in the region. We give you four tips to combat this insect.

Humidity, sun and relative heat: this explosive cocktail promotes the development of tiger mosquitoes. This Thursday, May 2, the Regional Health Agency of Burgundy-Franche-Comté warned about the spread of this insect.

ARS considers this “public health priority“. Indeed, the number of newly colonized municipalities in the region increased from four in 2021 to 67 in 2023. Saone-et-Loire is the department most affected by this phenomenon in the BFC, with thirty towns and villages colonized last year.

The tiger mosquito carries diseases such as dengue, chikungunya and Zika. About fifty cases of arbiviruses, viral diseases transmitted by mosquito bites, were also reported in Burgundy-Franche-Comté last year.

Detection, extermination… We give you four tips for controlling the tiger mosquito.

How to detect this?

Several features distinguishAedes albopictus (Latin name for tiger mosquito) of his other friends. First, his appearance: his body and legs are covered in black and white stripes. A long white line crosses his chest.

Three other features are noteworthy: it bites throughout the day, especially at the beginning and end of the day, is silent and measures on average five millimeters. Therefore, it is usually smaller than its counterparts, which is a great advantage for distribution.

How does a tiger mosquito develop?

During the winter, it colonizes artificial containers of any shape, such as flowerpot cups or used tires, to find a place where it can lay its eggs. On average, the tiger mosquito lays 150 eggs every twelve days in areas that come into contact with water. The larvae will develop on this surface: it takes them 10 days to take on an adult form.

The female lays eggs on average five times in her life. Thus, a tiger mosquito can lay up to 750 eggs: this is why the tiger mosquito develops so quickly.

How to prevent its spread?

In general, all standing water tanks should be removed. To do this, ARS encourages keeping catch basins tightly closed and emptying cups under flower pots or pet bowls once a week.

You should also clean up or throw away any items left in the yard. Another part of this routine should be dedicated to maintaining pools and gutters to facilitate water flow.

Communities also have a role to play in controlling the untimely spread of the tiger mosquito: Fredon, a government organization specializing in environmental health, has developed an action plan to combat this insect in public places. In their opinion, the most effective solution is to “eliminate larval breeding sites.”

This requires identifying the areas where mosquitoes are most likely to lay eggs and then cleaning or blocking them every week to prevent larvae from developing.

How to avoid being bitten?

Once a tiger mosquito becomes established, it will be difficult to dislodge. To avoid being bitten as much as possible, APC advises citizens to wear “long, loose and light” clothing when outdoors. Indoors, it is recommended to install mosquito nets on doors and windows left open, as well as use a fan, sinceAedes albopictus does not like air mixing.

Finally, if you get stung, there are two solutions: In most cases, simply wash the wound with soap and water and apply a soothing cream.

If the reaction is more severe or you experience symptoms suggestive of a viral illness, such as headache, fever or joint pain, do not hesitate to contact your doctor.