France holidays come with a health warning to Britons this summer due to the presence of the infamous Asian Tiger mosquito. The “potentially deadly” insects have now invaded half of all the départements in France. The Asian Tiger mosquito can carry potentially lethal diseases such as Dengue Fever, Zika, Yellow Fever, encephalitis and chikungunya. It also delivers a painful bite – and Britons are being cautioned to protect themselves in the latest France travel advice.
Bite prevention expert, Howard Carter has explained how holidaymakers can safeguard themselves against mosquitoes before travelling.
“The Asian Tiger mosquito is like a mini vampire with a notoriously painful bite, and has spread dengue fever throughout southern France,” Carter told Express.co.uk.
“The situation has got so bad in France that mosquito control campaigns are currently running to help protect the local population.
“But it’s not going well and it seems that these biting insects are here to stay, so it’s imperative that Britons are made aware and travel protected to France.”
Carter continued: “These potentially deadly mosquitoes are currently focussed in half of the country including the South and the greater Paris region, however experts forecast that the whole country will be inundated with this species by 2030.”
The news is particularly concerning given the high number of Britons who do not use insect repellent.
“The majority of Brits are unaware of the risks when holidaying in France as 74 per cent of us don’t bother with any insect repellent, risking serious health problems or at the very least, their holidays!” said Carter.
“Brits aren’t good at protecting themselves from mosquitoes, which is why the UK is the number one EU country for holidaymakers returning with mosquito-borne diseases.
“So it’s absolutely essential people learn how to protect themselves before they travel!”
“The Asian Tiger mosquito is one of the most aggressive and is only active during the day, so to protect yourself ensure you ‘CLOAK’ yourself.”
Carter explained the acronym and the steps to take: “C – Cover up arms and legs with suitable clothing,” he said.
“Next is L – Light coloured clothing is strongly advisable as mosquitoes are drawn to dark. O – Odours such as perfumes and ordinary toiletries e.g. shampoos or shower gels are strong attractants. So use anti-mosquito wash products instead and exfoliate with a loofah.
“Then there is A – Apply an effective, preferably PMD-based insect repellents such as incognito or DEET. K – Keep away from stagnant water if possible.”
The expert added: “Use protection on any exposed skin and spray your clothing as well; mosquitoes can and will bite through fabric, even thick jeans!
“Spray an insect repellent on and around your door before entering as mosquitoes often lie in wait on the outside of doors and windows and this simple procedure helps to keep them out of your apartment or villa.”
Travellers heading to Spain are also being encouraged to take care to protect themselves from the dangerous mosquitos.