Latest news with #MeeraChand
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Climate
- Yahoo
Scientists raise red flag after discovering traces of dangerous mosquito-borne disease in new location: 'Already widespread'
A new mosquito-related health scare is making headlines in the United Kingdom, and it's raising alarms far beyond British borders. For the first time, scientists have detected traces of West Nile virus in mosquitoes on British soil. As reported by the Guardian, genetic material from the virus was identified in two samples of Aedes vexans mosquitoes collected from wetlands near Nottinghamshire in July 2023. The discovery came from the Vector-Borne Radar program, a joint initiative of the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Animal and Plant Health Agency. "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," Dr. Meera Chand, the UKHSA deputy director for travel health, explained. The virus is a glimpse into how increasing global temperatures are expanding where insects like mosquitoes can thrive and spread disease. Aedes vexans mosquitoes are already native to the UK, but they haven't typically been hosts for West Nile virus because the temperature hasn't allowed it, although that's starting to change. At around 86 degrees Fahrenheit, the virus can become infectious inside a mosquito within two to three weeks. That means hotter weather gives viruses more time to develop and fewer obstacles to transmission. Although most people infected with West Nile virus don't experience symptoms, about one in five may suffer flu-like effects, and a small percentage may develop serious complications involving the brain or spinal cord. This discovery follows a growing number of similar health stories. Earlier this year, a mysterious fungal infection affecting dogs was linked to prolonged exposure to heat. Do you worry about getting diseases from bug bites? Absolutely Only when I'm camping or hiking Not really Never Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. There have also been reports on how viruses like dengue, once considered rare in Europe or parts of the southern U.S., are now creeping into those regions. In response, the UK Health Security Agency has strengthened surveillance efforts and issued updated guidance to health care providers. Health professionals are being urged to test for West Nile virus in unexplained cases of brain inflammation. Fortunately, there are some easy ways to stay proactive. Planting mosquito-repelling herbs like citronella or lavender can make outdoor spaces more comfortable. On a bigger scale, reducing air pollution by walking or biking more, switching to electric tools, or unplugging devices when they're not in use can help slow the overheating that allows these viruses to thrive. In some regions, local leaders are launching targeted mosquito control programs, while researchers are using climate data to better predict and prepare for outbreaks. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
The Irish Sun
22-05-2025
- Health
- The Irish Sun
The 7 signs of deadly, paralysing West Nile virus that's mistaken for flu – as it's found in UK mozzies for first time
DEADLY and paralysing West Nile virus has been spotted in UK mosquitoes for the first time. The bug is spread 3 West Nile virus has been detected in mosquitoes in the UK for the first time Credit: Getty Many people won't get symptoms at all but some may be struck with flu-like aches and pains, The virus can cause severe, life-threatening illness in around one in 150 people who catch it, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), which may lead to paralysis or even death. Scientists identified fragments of the virus in the genetic material of UK mosquitoes for first the time. While there have been other cases of West Nile virus on British soil, these have usually been a result of mozzie bites acquired in different countries, where the disease-carrying critters are abundant. Read more on West Nile virus Over the last 25 years, only seven cases have been brought into the UK by travellers - and none have caught it locally. While West Nile virus is endemic in Africa, the Middle East, West and Central Asia, the US and Australia, mosquitoes carrying the disease have gradually spread through Europe - including in the north, where temperatures are lower. Scientists from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) gathered them in July 2023 and pooled into 200 groups of 10 for testing. Most read in Health Only two out of 200 groups that were tested showed traces of the virus. UKHSA stressed that it the risk to Brits was low, as there have been no reports of the virus spreading to people. Dr Meera Chand, UKHSA deputy director for travel health and emerging infections, 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." The health watchdog said healthcare professionals should test patients with encephalitis of unknown cause as a precaution through UKHSA's Rare and Imported Pathogens Laboratory. 3 Prof Tom Solomon, from the NIHR Health Protection Research Unit on Emerging Infections and the Pandemic Institute in Liverpool said West Nile virus mostly causes a flu-like illness in people. But it can also "infect people with no symptoms at all". People infected with the bug may experience: Headaches Body aches and joint pain Vomiting Diarrhoea Rash Fever Swollen lymph nodes Symptoms typically take two to 14 days to appear after infection and should go away within three to six days, according to the UK Health Security Agency. Prof Solomon added: "In a small proportion of patients, the virus can cause neurological disease, which may lead to paralysis or even death. "Unfortunately, there is no specific treatment." Other mosquito-borne diseases and how to protect yourself Vector-borne diseases - illnesses transmitted to humans by organisms such as mosquitoes and ticks - are a growing threat to the UK and Europe. They account for more than 17 per cent of all infectious diseases globally, causing over 700,000 deaths annually, according to UKHSA. They include: Malaria Dengue Yellow fever Zika Chikungunya The Fit for Travel website says if you are travelling to an area affected by diseases such as malaria, dengue fever and yellow fever, spread by mosquitoes, you should take action to protect yourself. Some mosquitoes are more active in the day time while others at night - so it is important to protect yourself at all times. It says: "If you develop a high temperature (fever) either during or after travelling to an affected area, you should seek medical advice as soon as possible and give details of your recent travel history." To protect yourself: Use a good quality insect repellent The higher the strength, the longer the repellent should prevent mosquitoes landing on you. An effective repellent contains at least one of; DEET (50% concentration for areas where there is malaria), Icaradin/Picardin (at least 20% concentration, Eucalyptus citriodora oil, hydrated, cyclized (at least 30% concentration), IR3535 (but not for malaria areas). Apply: On all areas of skin not covered by clothes After sun screen Regularly, particularly if you notice mosquitoes around you After swimming, washing or excessive sweating On the face, by spraying the repellent on the hands first Loose clothing Mosquitoes can bite through tight clothing, so loose-fitted clothing is ideal. Consider a high neckline, long sleeves, long trousers and socks. Remember to apply insect repellent on areas not clothed. Mosquito nets Mosquito nets can protect you at night when sleeping and are even better if treated with insecticide. Check for any holes in the net before using it. If a hole is apparent, then this should be mended. You should tuck the net under your mattress or ground sheet during the night, and either collapse it down, or keep it tucked up during the day to stop insects flying under and into the net. Fewer than 1 per cent of people infected with West Nile virus will develop disease in the brain and nervous system, according to UKHSA. This may be meningitis, encephalitis with high fever, neck stiffness, disorientation or confusion, severe muscle weakness, tremors, convulsions, paralysis and coma. People over 50 or with health conditions like cancer , diabetes , , or are at higher risk of serious illness. Meanwhile, patients aged over 70 are at highest risk of death. How is West Nile virus spread? The bug is primarily spread through the bites of infected mosquitoes. According to UKHSA, humans are considered dead-end-hosts, which means people infected with West Nile virus can't transmit the virus back to mosquitoes. This means that if someone gets overseas and travels back to the UK, this won't lead to further transmission of the illness. With the bug being spotted in UK mosquitoes for the first time, experts still aren't especially worried that this will lead to widespread transmission of West Nile virus in the UK. Dr Robert Jones, assistant professor at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , said: 'There is currently no evidence that these fragments of genetic material are linked to any human cases of West Nile virus infection." Professor Paul Long, a microbiologist at King's College London, added: 'Although virus-infected mosquitoes have been found in the UK there's no evidence yet that these mosquitoes will survive in the UK climate, although prolonged warm weather does increase the chances.' In Europe - where cases of West Nile virus have been identified in countries including France, Italy and Portugal - cases tend to be highest in summer and early autumn, when mosquitoes are most active. In very rare cases, the illness can passed on through blood transfusion, organ donation or vertical transmission from mother to child during pregnancy, delivery or breastfeeding. In 2024, 1,436 locally acquired cases were reported across 19 EU countries — including France, Spain and Italy - resulting in 125 deaths. That's a sharp rise from 802 cases in the same period last year, suggesting the virus is gaining ground. 3
Scottish Sun
22-05-2025
- Health
- Scottish Sun
The 7 signs of deadly, paralysing West Nile virus that's mistaken for flu – as it's found in UK mozzies for first time
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) DEADLY and paralysing West Nile virus has been spotted in UK mosquitoes for the first time. The bug is spread through the bites of infected mozzies that are common in Africa, the Middle East and South Asia. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 3 West Nile virus has been detected in mosquitoes in the UK for the first time Credit: Getty Many people won't get symptoms at all but some may be struck with flu-like aches and pains, headaches and fever. The virus can cause severe, life-threatening illness in around one in 150 people who catch it, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), which may lead to paralysis or even death. Scientists identified fragments of the virus in the genetic material of UK mosquitoes for first the time. While there have been other cases of West Nile virus on British soil, these have usually been a result of mozzie bites acquired in different countries, where the disease-carrying critters are abundant. Over the last 25 years, only seven cases have been brought into the UK by travellers - and none have caught it locally. While West Nile virus is endemic in Africa, the Middle East, West and Central Asia, the US and Australia, mosquitoes carrying the disease have gradually spread through Europe - including in the north, where temperatures are lower. The infected mozzies were found on the banks of the River Idle, near Gamston in Nottinghamshire, where flooding and standing water encourages them to gather. Scientists from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) gathered them in July 2023 and pooled into 200 groups of 10 for testing. Only two out of 200 groups that were tested showed traces of the virus. UKHSA stressed that it the risk to Brits was low, as there have been no reports of the virus spreading to people. Dr Meera Chand, UKHSA deputy director for travel health and emerging infections, 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." The health watchdog said healthcare professionals should test patients with encephalitis of unknown cause as a precaution through UKHSA's Rare and Imported Pathogens Laboratory. 3 Prof Tom Solomon, from the NIHR Health Protection Research Unit on Emerging Infections and the Pandemic Institute in Liverpool said West Nile virus mostly causes a flu-like illness in people. But it can also "infect people with no symptoms at all". People infected with the bug may experience: Headaches Body aches and joint pain Vomiting Diarrhoea Rash Fever Swollen lymph nodes Symptoms typically take two to 14 days to appear after infection and should go away within three to six days, according to the UK Health Security Agency. Prof Solomon added: "In a small proportion of patients, the virus can cause neurological disease, which may lead to paralysis or even death. "Unfortunately, there is no specific treatment." Other mosquito-borne diseases and how to protect yourself Vector-borne diseases - illnesses transmitted to humans by organisms such as mosquitoes and ticks - are a growing threat to the UK and Europe. They account for more than 17 per cent of all infectious diseases globally, causing over 700,000 deaths annually, according to UKHSA. They include: Malaria Dengue Yellow fever Zika Chikungunya The Fit for Travel website says if you are travelling to an area affected by diseases such as malaria, dengue fever and yellow fever, spread by mosquitoes, you should take action to protect yourself. Some mosquitoes are more active in the day time while others at night - so it is important to protect yourself at all times. It says: "If you develop a high temperature (fever) either during or after travelling to an affected area, you should seek medical advice as soon as possible and give details of your recent travel history." To protect yourself: Use a good quality insect repellent The higher the strength, the longer the repellent should prevent mosquitoes landing on you. An effective repellent contains at least one of; DEET (50% concentration for areas where there is malaria), Icaradin/Picardin (at least 20% concentration, Eucalyptus citriodora oil, hydrated, cyclized (at least 30% concentration), IR3535 (but not for malaria areas). Apply: On all areas of skin not covered by clothes After sun screen Regularly, particularly if you notice mosquitoes around you After swimming, washing or excessive sweating On the face, by spraying the repellent on the hands first Loose clothing Mosquitoes can bite through tight clothing, so loose-fitted clothing is ideal. Consider a high neckline, long sleeves, long trousers and socks. Remember to apply insect repellent on areas not clothed. Mosquito nets Mosquito nets can protect you at night when sleeping and are even better if treated with insecticide. Check for any holes in the net before using it. If a hole is apparent, then this should be mended. You should tuck the net under your mattress or ground sheet during the night, and either collapse it down, or keep it tucked up during the day to stop insects flying under and into the net. Fewer than 1 per cent of people infected with West Nile virus will develop disease in the brain and nervous system, according to UKHSA. This may be meningitis, encephalitis with high fever, neck stiffness, disorientation or confusion, severe muscle weakness, tremors, convulsions, paralysis and coma. People over 50 or with health conditions like cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, or high blood pressure are at higher risk of serious illness. Meanwhile, patients aged over 70 are at highest risk of death. How is West Nile virus spread? The bug is primarily spread through the bites of infected mosquitoes. According to UKHSA, humans are considered dead-end-hosts, which means people infected with West Nile virus can't transmit the virus back to mosquitoes. This means that if someone gets overseas and travels back to the UK, this won't lead to further transmission of the illness. With the bug being spotted in UK mosquitoes for the first time, experts still aren't especially worried that this will lead to widespread transmission of West Nile virus in the UK. Dr Robert Jones, assistant professor at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, said: 'There is currently no evidence that these fragments of genetic material are linked to any human cases of West Nile virus infection." Professor Paul Long, a microbiologist at King's College London, added: 'Although virus-infected mosquitoes have been found in the UK there's no evidence yet that these mosquitoes will survive in the UK climate, although prolonged warm weather does increase the chances.' In Europe - where cases of West Nile virus have been identified in countries including France, Italy and Portugal - cases tend to be highest in summer and early autumn, when mosquitoes are most active. In very rare cases, the illness can passed on through blood transfusion, organ donation or vertical transmission from mother to child during pregnancy, delivery or breastfeeding. In 2024, 1,436 locally acquired cases were reported across 19 EU countries — including France, Spain and Italy - resulting in 125 deaths. That's a sharp rise from 802 cases in the same period last year, suggesting the virus is gaining ground.
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
