Tiger Mosquitoes: A Looming Threat to Finland’s Health and Environment Amidst Global Warming

Tiger mosquitoes, capable of spreading dengue fever, have been found in Sweden but not yet in Finland, according to researchers. These mosquitoes are a concern as they have started to spread to Europe due to global warming. While there have been no confirmed sightings in Finland, experts believe that a tiger mosquito could potentially arrive in the country through plants or other means.

In Europe, the tiger mosquito has established populations in 13 countries and has been observed in seven others. There has been an increase in dengue fever cases, with 130 cases recorded last year. However, the risk of dengue in Finland is currently low.

Mosquito species in Finland also pose a potential threat, such as the West Nile virus carrier A modest mosquitow. This species was found in the coastal region of Pori in the summer of 2022. Other mosquito species found in Finland have also been studied for their ability to transmit the West Nile virus.

Despite the low risks of dengue fever and other mosquito-borne diseases in Finland at present, monitoring mosquito populations and potential virus transmissions remains important due to climate change and the spread of these diseases to new areas.