A single “tiger” mosquito, known to be an “aggressive” daytime biter, has been detected in the Niagara Region. Niagara Region Public Health announced Tuesday that it has identified a single Aedes albopticus mosquito, colloquially known as the Asian tiger mosquito. The local health unit discovered the mosquito in Lincoln, Ont. It tested negative for any mosquito-born virus. While this particular mosquito tested negative, Niagara Region Public Health said this species is capable of transmitting viruses like West Nile, dengue, chikungunya, and Zika. “It is important to note that there has been no change in risk associated with these viruses in our community,” the news release reads. The tiger mosquito is originally from Southeast Asia, but it has been detected in Windsor, Ont., for the last decade. “Unlike the other mosquitoes in Ontario, Aedes albopictus mosquitoes are aggressive daytime biters, so protecting yourself and your family anytime you are outside is important,” said Dr. Hamidah Meghani, associate medical officer of health. “While the risk of complications from a mosquito-borne virus remains low, keeping the community informed when our surveillance program identifies newer mosquito species is an important part of public health.” To reduce the number of mosquitoes, Niagara Region Public Health urges residents to empty standing water around their homes, cleaning eavestroughs and gutters and ensuring door and window screens fit securely. The health unit also recommends using an insect repellent that contains either DEET or Icaridin and wearing long-sleeved and light-coloured clothes outside.
