The arrival of a cousin species of the dengue mosquito in cities is a health problem

Aedes albopictus is a “cousin” mosquito of A. a Egypti that has adapted better to high and low temperatures, increasing cases of dengue: health is on alert

The arrival of a species cousin to the mosquito Aedes aegizi in Brazil, called Aedes albopictus OR Asian tiger mosquito, is already causing health effects. The insect previously inhabited only forests, but began to spread to urban regions across the country. Even him transmits dengue fever and other diseases linked to its best-known relative, like Zika, chikungunya and yellow fever.

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Kleber Luz, coordinator of the Arbovirus Committee of the Brazilian Society of Infectious Diseases (SBI), commented on the issue during the 23rd Brazilian Congress of Infectious Diseases. According to him, in Brazil there are two mosquitoes, four serotypes of dengue and three diseases monitored by health teams.

OR A. albopictus it is more resistant to high and low temperatures than A. aegizi, with the former also flying in a cloud (in a flock), while the latter is solitary. The Asian tiger mosquito is estimated to arrive in Europe around 2050, with organizations on the continent already expressing concern and thinking about tactics to combat it once it spreads.

Arbovirus and mosquito control

According to Luz, the heat causes mosquitoes to breed and spread more, increasing the appearance of arboviruses (diseases caused by insects). Global warming has brought species to places where they did not live before and, where they already were, their numbers have grown. In Brazil, this generates greater concern about dengue, as more pessimistic estimates indicate serotype 3 epidemic in 2024 due to the presence of two mosquitoes.

Previously, studies were able to predict the increase in cases and epidemicsBut, in 2022, the arrival of A. albopictus the scenario changed — in all regions except the North, the first quarter of the year recorded the highest number of cases, few in September. Luz says this is no longer true, with more dengue cases, severity and deaths appearing in subsequent semesters as well.

The scientist recalls that the most efficient combat in prevention of dengue, which prevents the insect from proliferating, is in the house, checking all places that can accumulate water, such as vases, pet bottles, water tanks and garbage. Educating children at home and obeying medical recommendations in case of infection are also important recommendations.

It is worth remembering that the symptoms of dengue fever are abdominal pain, vomiting and bleeding from the mouth, the latter appearing already when the case becomes severe. Others may be fever, red spots on the body, lack of appetite, pain in the joints, behind the eyes and in the head. There is also concern, according to Luz, about the chikungunya, which caused shock and death in Paraguay, worrying Brazilian health authorities for this year and next. The infection can kill in up to five days without treatment.

Source: Folha de S. Paulo

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Source: Terra

Rose

Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.