A mosquito invasion could hit the UK in weeks and Brits will be ‘eaten alive’ expert warns but they won’t just be coming for blood – they could be bringing dengue and malaria with them.
Brits are being urged to brace themselves for a surge in mosquitoes as weather conditions create a perfect invite for the blood-sucking pests. After recent thunderstorms and now, the soaring heat, there is now a record number of mosquitoes and experts say we’re just weeks away from an outbreak.
“We currently have the perfect breeding conditions for mosquitoes in the UK and it is only a matter of a couple of weeks before there’s an outbreak in the UK. People are already getting eaten alive and coming to me for advice,” said Howard Carter, bite prevention specialist.
“In fact, last year there were record numbers of people bringing back dengue and malaria.” It comes after the ‘UK’s most dangerous plant’ left a toddler in A&E with second-degree burns.
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But it’s not just itchy bumps we should be worried about, some of these bugs are bringing serious health risks. “They’re out for blood,” Howard warned.
“The Asian Tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, which can carry Dengue, is present in the UK, but currently does not carry the dengue fever virus.”
“Although because UK residents are bringing back more mosquito-borne diseases from overseas travel it is only a matter of time before there is a dengue outbreak on these shores. It’s a similar story with malaria, which had a resurgence after Covid,” he said.
And it has already begun worldwide after the World Health organisation (WHO) reported record numbers of dengue cases worldwide.
Whether in your garden or on holiday, Howard is urging people to follow his CLOAK method:
- C – Cover up arms and legs with suitable clothing.
- L – Light coloured clothes are strongly advisable because mosquitoes are attracted to dark colours.
- O – Odours, bodily or scented products, can be strong attractants. Use citronella or other repellent shower gels, shampoos and soaps. Exfoliate with a loofah if you’re a mosquito magnet.
- A – Apply an effective, preferably natural, insect repellent containing PMD. Incognito contains the purest PMD, so is therefore stronger and is clinically proven to provide 100% protection.
- K – Keep away from stagnant water if possible.
“A lot of mosquitoes zero in on the ears, wrists and ankles because this is where the skin is thinner and blood vessels are nearer the surface. So, it is a good idea to wash with a soap or loofah that contains citronella, then spray and use a moisturiser containing a clinically proven repellent,” he added.
“But always use the spray last. In addition you could use an incognito Insect Repellent Bracelet, which can be worn on the wrist or ankle.”
Howard warns the risk is still as high indoors: “Use protection on any exposed skin and spray your clothing as well; mosquitoes can and will bite through fabric, even thick jeans!
“Spray an insect repellent on and around your door before entering, as mosquitoes often lie in wait on the outside of doors and windows and this simple procedure helps to keep them out.”