- The designated medical professional is implementing measures to deter tiger mosquitoes.
Nearly 2,000 mosquitoes have been examined by the Mitte district health department this year, and not one Asian tiger mosquito was found among them. Instead, they spotted other striped mosquitoes that people might not easily recognize, according to Lukas Murajda, a medical professional at the Mitte district health department. This department has been keeping an eye on potential Asian tiger mosquito populations in Berlin since July 19.
The Asian tiger mosquito, identified as Aedes albopictus, originates from tropical regions and can carry a variety of disease-causing agents like dengue, chikungunya, and Zika viruses. Fortunately, no such cases have been reported in Germany yet. However, there are some established populations, even in Berlin, with Treptow-Köpenick reporting cases for several years now, starting from 2021. This led to a pilot project to combat this invasive species in 2023.
Only the females of this species bite.
Murajda prefers not to talk about the Treptow-Köpenick project. In other districts, Asian tiger mosquitoes have been spotted in minimal numbers this year: one female in a Charlottenburg cemetery and one male in a Neukölln allotment garden. Their origin remains a mystery. Females bite due to their protein needs during the egg-laying period. Last year, Asian tiger mosquitoes were first noticed in late summer. "It's too early to make conclusions," says Murajda, as the season typically extends until around October.
The Mitte district uses two types of traps, totaling several dozen. The first type, called the GAT (Gravid Aedes Trap), consists of a pot with water and plant parts. These mosquitoes are attracted to the foul smell of the plant broth, but they can't reach it due to a net and get stuck on a sticky strip while searching for an exit. In the second trap, the BG Pro, mosquitoes are attracted by CO2 and are drawn into the device by a gentle airflow using a fan and battery.
"We can't stop their spread."
Murajda is preparing for the worst-case scenario. "I don't believe we can stop the Asian tiger mosquito from spreading," he says. Despite their unpleasant bite, they only become dangerous if they bite infected humans. "We're focusing on prevention," says Murajda. This includes informing the public.
Murajda's recommendation: avoid water accumulations, empty standing water once a week. "Even a bottle cap is enough." Also, wear light, loose, and long clothing and use anti-mosquito products. Chemical control measures should be a last resort after trying these methods.
The European Union has not reported any cases of Asian tiger mosquito-borne diseases due to the absence of the species in its territory, as confirmed by the health departments. Despite the Mitte district's efforts to monitor potential Asian tiger mosquito populations in Berlin, the presence of this invasive species remains a concern in other districts like Treptow-Köpenick.
