The tiger mosquito was first spotted in Nancy in 2021 and has since proliferated in the region.
Measuring around 5 millimetres, this mosquito can transmit over 26 different viruses, including dengue, chikungunya, and zika.
The ARS recently decided to place the three French departments on red alert.
“We have a red alert in eastern France because we are about to enter a period of holidays and migration. It is important to know that tiger mosquitoes do not only bite humans but also animals and especially birds. So there is a health risk,” entomologist Anna-Bella Failloux told France Info.
It is advisable to wear loose-fitting clothes and to avoid stagnant water, which is where females usually lay their eggs. To prevent breeding, cups, containers, flower pots, vases, and buckets in the garden should be emptied regularly.
All mosquitos are now resistant to insecticides, says Failloux, especially since the tiger mosquito has learned to evolve in cooler climates, whereas only a few years ago it was limited to tropical areas.
The tiger mosquito has black and white stripes, measures 0.5 to 0.6 cm, has two antennae and a proboscis in the extension of its head. It is known to sting during the day, and its bite can be painful and cause itching.
If you spot a mosquito, report it via this platform.
