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First Post
3 days ago
- Health
- First Post
In a first, UK reports West Nile virus in mosquitoes; experts blame it on climate change
In what is being seen a consequence of climate change, the West Nile virus has been detected in the United Kingdom for the first time. As temperatures are rising across the world, diseases are popping in places with no history of that disease. The West Nile virus in the UK is just one such example. read more A vector control team vehicle displays a sign warning of West Nile Virus before the early morning spraying of a neighborhood due to increasing numbers of mosquitoes having tested positive for West Nile virus in San Diego, California, U.S. May 18, 2016. (Representative Photo, Credit: Reuters) For the first time, the West Nile virus has been detected in the United Kingdom. Climate change is being considered as the culprit. In a routine mosquito surveillance programme, the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) found the West Nile virus in a batch of aedes vexans mosquitoes collected from marshlands on Idle river in Nottinghamshire. No case has been detected in the UK so far and experts say that the risk of an outbreak is very low. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD While the West Nile virus has been endemic to Africa and West Asia for decades, the climate change-induced warming up of Europe has brought the virus to the continent as well. The UK is the latest European country to report the virus. The West Nile virus is primarily found in birds. Mosquitoes that bite birds get the virus and occasionally transfer it to humans with their bites. As much as 80 per cent of human infections cause no symptoms and severe infections are rare. In severe cases, encephalitis can occur and can lead to brain damage and even death. While the virus is not contagious among humans, it can spread from an infected person via blood transfusion, organ transplants, pregnancy, or breastfeeding. Climate change brings West Nile virus to UK The confirmation of the West Nile virus in the UK follows warnings that carriers of vector-borne diseases, such as dengue and yellow fever, are moving northwards from their traditional areas due to climate change. Dr Arran Folly, an arbovirologist at the APHA and head of the surveillance programme that found the virus in the UK told Guardian that the discovery is 'part of a wider changing landscape where, in the wake of climate change, mosquito-borne diseases are expanding to new areas'. The warming up of a place makes it likelier for the West Nile virus to grow. At 15*C, it takes many months for the virus to reach infectious level, which is much more than a mosquito's average lifespan. At 30*C, however, the same process can happen in two-three weeks, which is within a mosquito's average lifespan. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In an article for The Conversation, Dr Paul Hunter noted that while the exact route of West Nile virus to the UK is not clear, it is believed that the virus may have arrived via migratory birds infected elsewhere. So far, conditions ripe for a West Nile virus outbreak in the UK have not been reached but that could change if temperatures keep rising. 'For a local outbreak to occur, there would need to be a critical mass of infected birds and mosquitoes, with enough warm weather to sustain multiple cycles of transmission. So far, that hasn't happened in the UK. But climate change could alter the equation. With rising global temperatures and longer, hotter summers, the conditions that allow viruses such as West Nile to spread may become more common in the UK,' noted Hunter, a specialist in medical microbiology and virology. As temperatures are rising across the world, diseases are being reported in places with no history of that disease. The West Nile virus in the UK is just one such example. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
Daily Mirror
24-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
UK households warned to check on blackbirds if they come into gardens
Scientists warn that a deadly disease has been culling blackbird populations - here's what you need to know and the signs that blackbirds in your garden may be infected Scientists have urged those with blackbirds flitting around their garden to watch out – as they may be carrying a horrifying mosquito-borne disease. Alarms have been raised after almost half the species' population has been killed by the sickness. Known as the Usutu virus, it has decimated the London blackbird population by about 40% since 2020. Now the disease is spreading rapidly across the UK and, in particular, southern England. To combat its spread, garden-owners have been urged to monitor any blackbirds that they see in their garden. Dr Arran Folly from the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) told the BBC: "We've seen that the virus has spread further than we thought it might do, and it's persisted. Blackbirds specifically are quite susceptible to the virus.' He added that its prevalence indicates that the UK might see other viruses that are transmitted by mosquitoes beginning to emerge. Particularly in warmer weather conditions. Scientists from the APHA in Weybridge, Surrey, have warned this may be linked to climate change. Hotter temperatures and heavier rainfall make it easier for mosquitos to spread in climates previously inhospitable to them. The Usutu virus was first discovered in southern Africa 80 years ago as a deadly zoonotic disease that mainly spread between mosquitos and birds. It was first detected in Austria in 2001 and has been spreading through Europe since. It reached the UK in 2020, where it was picked up for the first time after several blackbirds in the London area were found to be carrying it, following that year's summer heatwave. Signs that a blackbird may be suffering from Usutu include weakness and lethargy, poor co-ordination, ruffled feathers and a drooping head or wings. They also display a reluctance to fly. More seriously, watch out for birds suffering from seizures or gasping for breath. Although, it's important to remember that they may not display any obvious signs. The virus can be highly deadly, as it infects multiple organs in the bird's body. This includes the kidneys and the brain. Scientists and The British Trust for Ornithology are calling for volunteers to count blackbirds in their gardens over the summer months. This is to help them find out more about the comings and goings of the birds. As reported by The Sun, The British Trust for Ornithology said: "The Blackbirds in Gardens project will help us understand how Blackbirds use gardens, and the potential effects of the Usutu virus on their population in the UK.' The survey will run until September and takes 15 minutes to complete.
Time of India
21-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Mosquitoes in the UK now carry a dangerous virus, here's how to stay safe this summer
For the first time, the West Nile virus ( WNV ) has been detected in mosquitoes in the United Kingdom, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). The virus was identified in Aedes vexans mosquitoes collected from wetlands near the River Idle in Nottinghamshire during July 2023 as part of the Vector-Borne RADAR surveillance program. WNV is primarily transmitted between birds and mosquitoes but can infect humans and horses occasionally. While most human cases are asymptomatic, about 20% of infected individuals may experience flu-like symptoms, and in rare instances, severe neurological conditions such as encephalitis or meningitis can occur. Dr. Meera Chand, Deputy Director at UKHSA, stated, "While this is the first detection of West Nile Virus in mosquitoes in the UK so far, it is not unexpected as the virus is already widespread in Europe." The risk to the general public is currently assessed as very low, with no evidence of the virus circulating in birds or mosquitoes beyond the detected samples. However, health authorities are enhancing surveillance and advising healthcare professionals to consider WNV in cases of unexplained encephalitis. Dr. Arran Folly, who led the project, noted, "The detection of West Nile virus in the UK is part of a wider changing landscape, where, in the wake of climate change, mosquito-borne diseases are expanding to new areas." Live Events How to stay safe from West Nile Virus(WNV) Even though the risk is low, health experts recommend the following steps to stay protected: Avoid mosquito bites: Use insect repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Wear protective clothing: Long sleeves, trousers, and socks help reduce skin exposure. Use mosquito nets: Especially when sleeping outdoors or in areas with high mosquito activity. Remove standing water: Empty flower pots, birdbaths, or buckets where mosquitoes can breed. Install screens: Use window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out of your home. FAQs What is the West Nile virus caused by? A single-stranded RNA virus from the Flavivirus genus causes West Nile virus. It is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected female mosquitoes, mainly of the Culex species. The virus cycles between mosquitoes and birds, with humans as incidental hosts. Are dengue and West Nile virus the same? No, dengue and West Nile virus are not the same, though both are flaviviruses transmitted by mosquitoes. Dengue fever symptoms include high fever, headache, and joint pain, while West Nile virus often presents flu-like or neurological symptoms. West Nile can cause encephalitis or meningitis, which is less common than dengue. Is there a West Nile virus in the UK? Yes, West Nile virus has been detected in mosquitoes in the UK. Aedes vexans mosquitoes collected in Nottinghamshire in July 2023 tested positive. There's no evidence of ongoing virus circulation, and no locally acquired human or horse cases have been reported. The risk to the general public remains very low. Which mosquito carries the West Nile virus? The West Nile virus is primarily carried and transmitted by mosquitoes of the genus Culex, especially species such as Culex pipiens, Culex tarsalis, and Culex quinquefasciatus. These mosquitoes feed mainly from evening to morning and are the primary vectors spreading the virus among birds and humans.
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
West Nile virus detected in UK mosquitoes for first time
West Nile virus, which mainly spreads between birds but can also infect people if they're bitten by an infected mosquito, has been detected in UK mosquitoes for the first time, UK health officials say. Although the virus can sometimes make people seriously ill, there is no evidence it is spreading in the UK and the risk to the general public is "very low", the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said. The virus is found in many parts of the world, including Africa, South America and mainland Europe. Climate change and other factors have been pushing mosquitoes - and the diseases they carry - further north in recent years. West Nile virus causes either very minor symptoms or none at all - but around 20% of infected people can experience headaches, high fever and skin issues. In rare cases, it can kill through serious brain illnesses, including encephalitis or meningitis. No specific treatment or vaccines exist for humans. To date, there have been no human cases of West Nile virus acquired in the UK - although, since 2000, there have been seven cases of the disease linked to travel to other countries. West Nile virus is usually present in several regions across the world, including parts of Africa, Asia, South America and Europe, and has expanded in recent years. Research by the UKHSA and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) found fragments of the virus in mosquitoes collected at ponds near Retford, Nottinghamshire in 2023. "While this is the first detection of West Nile Virus in mosquitoes in the UK so far, it is not unexpected as the virus is already widespread in Europe," said Dr Meera Chand, a deputy director for travel health and infections at UKHSA. Dr Arran Folly, who led the project which found the virus, said its detection is part of a "wider changing landscape, where, in the wake of climate change mosquito-borne diseases are expanding to new areas". While the Aedes vexans mosquito is native to Britain, he added that warming temperatures may bring non-native species to the UK and, with them, the potential of infectious disease. Prof James Logan, from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, said the development was "serious" but there was no need for the public to be alarmed. He said surveillance systems were in place to monitor increased mosquito activity and shifting bird migration caused by warmer weather. "But as conditions change, we need to stay one step ahead," he said. "This is a moment to recognise that the UK is no longer immune to some diseases once considered 'tropical'." Prof Logan said the virus is likely to have arrived via an infected bird or mosquito, which can both travel considerable distances during seasonal migration. Infected mosquitoes can transmit the virus to humans, he said, but there was "no evidence of human infection acquired in the UK". "However, the detection of the virus in mosquitoes marks a significant step in that direction," he added. Heather Ferguson, professor of infectious disease ecology at Glasgow University, said several mosquito species native the UK were "known to be capable for transmitting the virus", but do not do so at present because the conditions, such as temperature, "are not favourable". But she said this could change in the future, which is why lots of monitoring, testing and surveillance is always needed. The affected mosquito, one of many thousands of species of mosquito, is often found in wet areas. Experts recommend getting rid of standing water sources where they breed, and taking personal measures such as using mosquito repellent and bed nets. Last year, protests were held in Seville, Spain, after the death of five people infected with the disease. Protests in Seville as West Nile virus kills five
South Wales Guardian
21-05-2025
- Health
- South Wales Guardian
West Nile virus identified in UK mosquitoes for first time
While the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said the risk to the public is 'very low', it said that surveillance and control activities are being 'enhanced' in light of the findings. Experts said mosquito-borne diseases are expanding to new areas due to climate change. The UKHSA and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) said 'fragments of West Nile virus genetic material' were found in some Aedes vexans mosquitoes collected in wetlands on the River Idle at Gamston, near Retford in Nottinghamshire, in July 2023. West Nile virus is usually found in birds, and usually circulates through bird-biting mosquitoes. In rare cases mosquitoes can transmit the virus to humans or horses. While there have been no cases of West Nile virus acquired in the UK, seven cases linked to travel have been identified since the year 2000. The UKHSA said there is 'no evidence to suggest ongoing circulation of the virus in birds or mosquitoes in the UK'. But it said 'disease surveillance and control activities are being enhanced in light of the findings'. And it is issuing advice to health workers so that patients with encephalitis – or swelling of the brain – of an unknown cause can be tested as a precaution. Dr Meera Chand, from the UKHSA, said: 'While this is the first detection of West Nile virus in mosquitoes in the UK so far, it is not unexpected as the virus is already widespread in Europe. 'The risk to the general public is currently assessed as very low. 'Vector research of this kind is designed to give us early warning of potential threats so that we can enhance our disease surveillance and control activities and ensure patients receive appropriate testing.' West Nile virus, which typically causes flu-like symptoms but can lead to severe illness, is endemic in various parts of the world and experts said the 'geographic range' has expanded in recent years to more northerly and western regions of mainland Europe. The UKHSA said that as temperatures warm due to climate change, tick and mosquito species not currently native to the UK will begin to find the UK's climate more 'bearable'. Other types of mosquito can arrive in the UK by various means including becoming trapped in cars and lorries crossing borders and in shipping containers. Dr Arran Folly, from the APHA, said: 'The detection of West Nile virus in the UK is part of a wider changing landscape where, in the wake of climate change, mosquito-borne diseases are expanding to new areas. 'Our primary focus is to understand how viruses move into the country and how they are transmitted. 'Combined, this can help us identify areas that may be at increased risk of outbreaks.' Dr Jolyon Medlock, from the UKHSA, said: 'Mosquitoes in the UK are also commonly found in wet woodland areas and various aquatic habitats, including ponds, ditches, marshes, and even garden water butts or cisterns. 'To avoid being bitten by a mosquito when in these types of areas, wear long-sleeved clothing and trousers to cover your arms and legs, use insect repellent on your skin (ideally one that contains the ingredient DEET), close windows and doors whenever possible, or use blinds or screens.' Professor Matthew Baylis, from the University of Liverpool, said: 'West Nile virus is related to dengue virus, yellow fever virus, Zika virus and tick-borne encephalitis virus. West Nile virus is transmitted by mosquitoes between birds. 'It is possible that the virus entered the UK in mosquitoes, perhaps carried to the UK on winds, or hitching a ride in a plane, train or automobile. 'But it is much more likely that it was brought in by a migratory bird, which was then fed upon by mosquitoes. 'This should not be a major cause of concern: the spread of West Nile from southern Europe to northern Europe in the last few years has not led to a significant public health issue, although there have been cases in both humans and horses – I will not be surprised if we see a few cases in the UK too. 'There is a need to heighten surveillance, in humans, birds and mosquitoes. 'This is especially important given that severe cases that report or are reported to medical or veterinary authorities tend to be the tip of the iceberg, with many infected people or horses carrying the virus but not showing symptoms or signs.' Professor James Logan, from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, said: 'The detection of West Nile virus in even a small number of local mosquitoes is a signal that the door is now open. Whether the virus takes hold will depend on a combination of environmental, biological and human factors – including how well we prepare.'
