West Nile virus, primarily transmitted among birds but capable of infecting humans through mosquito bites, has been identified in UK mosquitoes for the first time, according to public health authorities.
Although the virus can cause severe illness in some individuals, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) stated there is currently no indication of the virus spreading within the country, and the overall risk to the population remains “very low.”
The virus is widespread globally, with confirmed cases in regions such as Africa, South America, and continental Europe. In recent years, factors like climate change have contributed to the northward spread of mosquitoes and the diseases they carry.
Most people infected with West Nile virus experience no symptoms or only mild ones. However, about one in five may develop issues such as fever, headaches, and skin rashes.
So far, no human infections acquired within the UK have been reported. Since 2000, there have been seven confirmed cases involving individuals who contracted the virus abroad.
Dr. Meera Chand, deputy director for travel health and infectious diseases at UKHSA, remarked that although this is the first time the virus has been found in UK mosquitoes, it was not an unexpected development given its established presence across Europe. The Aedes vexans mosquito, a native species in Britain, was involved in the detection.
