Flanders launches campaign to limit spread of tiger mosquito
The Flemish Department of Public Health has launched a new campaign to minimise the spread of the tiger mosquito. Under the slogan "Leg de tijgermug droog" (Dry out the tiger mosquito), people are urged to remove breeding sites and report sightings.
The tiger mosquito has continued to spread in Europe in recent decades, partly due to climate change. In the past three years, it has been found in 21 Flemish municipalities. To raise awareness of the problem, the government launched a campaign on Thursday.
The insect can spread tropical diseases such as dengue, chikungunya and zika. The chances of anyone getting sick in Belgium are low because these viruses are not yet circulating, but the department says it is important to keep it that way, by controlling the tiger mosquito population.
The campaign asks people to check their garden or balcony weekly from May to October for stagnant water, where mosquitoes like to breed.
"This can be as simple as emptying a flowerpot or changing a bird bath," said spokesperson Joris Moonens. "In addition, covering a rain barrel with a lid or mosquito net is a good idea."
Travellers should try to avoid carrying tiger mosquitoes in their cars or luggage. The department also encourages people to notify tiger mosquito sightings on its reporting platform. It can be recognised by its black and white striped pattern and is smaller than the common house mosquito. The tiger mosquito is also aggressive and will bite during the day.
#FlandersNewsService | © AFP PHOTO / EID MEDITERRANEE
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