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Asian Tiger Mosquito in France

02 May 2018

French health authorities have reported via media Link that the Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) is now found across approximately half of the country. Forty-two departments, mainly in the southern half of the mainland are now affected. Southern Ile-de France (Paris area) and Corsica are also affected.

The Asian tiger mosquito is an aggressive daytime biter and is recognised as a vector of viral infections including dengue and chikungunya. Authorities have confirmed that tiger mosquito numbers have doubled in the past 2 years in France. Outbreaks of dengue and chikungunya have occurred in mainland France in the past 5 years. There is also concern that outbreaks in the overseas departments and territories of France may provide a source of imported infection that could spread on the mainland.

Advice to travellers

Travellers to France are advised to avoid mosquito bites at all times.