Attack of the killer mosquitos as lethal bugs invade UK and could possibly be right here longer
Boffins have found 16 different types of mosquito in Scotland – including one known to carry three potentially killer viruses.
All could be passed on to humans bitten by disease-carrying Culex pipiens bloodsuckers. The viruses – Rift Valley Fever, Japanese encephalitis and West Nile virus – can affect the nervous system.
University of Glasgow researchers were surprised to find the mozzie strain. Professor Heather Ferguson warned global warming could lead to mosquitoes heading to Britain from regions where they transmit deadly diseases such as dengue and Zika.
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She said: “With warming temperatures we’re going to see larger numbers of mosquitoes, potentially different species including some that might be migrating from other areas where they can transmit diseases.
(Image: Shutterstock / cunaplus)
“They may be active for longer periods which means they maybe do pose a risk.”
And it’s not just mosquito bites Brits need to beware of as the warmer months approach. Snake attack warnings have also been issued as adders – Britain’s only native venomous slitherers – are poised to come out in the sun.
Bredy Vets in Bridport, Dorset, has already treated three dogs for bites. People visiting beaches, countryside picnic spots and even town centre parks should be alert to the critters.
Frisky male adders are performing their springtime “dance” where they intertwine with rival males for the right to mate with females.
(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
The horny ritual makes them aggressive and every year between 50 and 100 people are bitten. Infants, the elderly and the frail are most at risk.
Adders like heaths, moors, woods, seaside cliffs and beaches.
They are commonly found across the South West, South East and East of England, in much of Scotland and parts of South Wales.
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