The Asian tiger mosquito originally comes from Southeast Asia. In recent decades, however, it has spread to many subtropical countries through global trade.
The tiger mosquito arrived in Europe through the trade in tires and spread to countries such as Italy, Spain and France. It was also introduced to Germany through travelers and trade and was first detected in the Rhine Valley in 2007. Since then, the population of the tiger mosquito has been steadily increasing in Germany.
As the tiger mosquito prefers to breed in small pools of water such as rain barrels, plant bowls or bird baths, citizens can make an important contribution to controlling the tiger mosquito.
Characteristics of the Asian tiger mosquito
The Asian tiger mosquito is active from May to October. At 3 to 8 mm, it is a small mosquito. Its name "tiger mosquito" comes from the striking striped pattern on its hind legs. In contrast to other mosquito species, the Asian tiger mosquito only has black or silver-white scales.
There are three easily recognizable features that allow the Asian tiger mosquito to be distinguished relatively reliably from native mosquito species:
- Five white stripes on the hind legs,
- the last leg is white,
- a white stripe on the head and back.
Despite its striking appearance, the tiger mosquito is sometimes confused with other native mosquito species such as the ringed snake.
More than just an annoying mosquito
The Asian tiger mosquito is a potential health hazard. It can transmit viruses such as dengue, chikungunya, yellow fever or West Nile, which can cause serious illnesses. In Germany, however, the probability of infection is currently low.
Nevertheless, a bite is unpleasant, especially as the tiger mosquito is very keen to bite, according to researchers. In addition, it is active during the day: Unlike other mosquito species, it also bites before dusk. This makes them a particularly annoying pest. The Baden-Württemberg State Health Office provides detailed information on the health risks posed by the tiger mosquito (opens in a new tab).
Protection against tiger mosquitoes after trips to the tropics
Many mosquito-borne diseases, such as dengue fever, are often asymptomatic or only cause mild symptoms. This is why protection against tiger mosquitoes is particularly important after returning from the tropics to prevent further transmission.
Travelers returning from the tropics should therefore continue to protect themselves against mosquitoes for around three weeks after returning home. This applies regardless of whether they feel ill or not. Effective protective measures are
- Clothing: Wear long, preferably airy clothing that covers arms and legs.
- At home: put mosquito nets on windows and balcony doors.
- Outdoors: Use insect repellents with the proven active ingredients DEET (diethyltoluamide) or Icaridin. These are available as sprays or lotions.
This prevents tropical diseases from being transmitted to Germany via the Asian tiger mosquito.
Preventing the spread in Stuttgart
Some regions in Baden-Württemberg are particularly suitable for the introduction and establishment of the tiger mosquito. A map on the homepage of the State Health Office (opens in a new tab)shows the places in Baden-Württemberg where the mosquito has already established itself.
There are various ways in which the citizens of Stuttgart can help to curb the spread of these annoying mosquitoes.
Where does the tiger mosquito breed?
What can you do to prevent the spread?
Where do you report the discovery of a tiger mosquito?
More information
Drinking Water and Environmental Hygiene Unit
