Summary:
The Monaco government has implemented a mosquito surveillance system to detect and prevent the spread of viral diseases like dengue.
Full Story:
The Aedes albopictus mosquito, commonly known as the tiger mosquito, arrived in Menton in 2004 and has since irreversibly colonized the Alpes-Maritimes region and the Principality of Monaco. It is a vector for viral diseases, including dengue fever. Individuals who travel to endemic areas (Africa, Asia, Latin America) can contract the disease and bring it back to Europe. If a virus carrier is bitten by a mosquito, the mosquito can subsequently transmit the virus by biting another individual.
Due to the increase in dengue fever cases observed in the PACA region, the Department of Social Affairs and Health has decided to implement a mosquito surveillance program to determine if they are carrying viruses and trigger targeted interventions if necessary.
Multiple mosquito sampling instruments have been deployed in strategic areas of the Principality, particularly in public spaces. Samples will be collected and analyzed once a week to ensure the absence of arboviruses (dengue, chikungunya, Zika, and West Nile).
To prevent the transmission of arboviral diseases, it is essential for individuals who are ill to take necessary precautions, such as using mosquito repellents, mosquito nets, sleeping in ventilated areas, or using insecticides. If needed, targeted larvicides and adulticides can be used within their homes to control mosquito larvae and adults.
Dengue fever manifests after an incubation period of 4 to 10 days with the onset of high fever, often accompanied by headaches, nausea, and vomiting. If these symptoms occur, it is strongly recommended to consult a doctor who can perform a rapid diagnostic test (TROD) to rule out other causes of fever.
It is important to note that dengue fever is a mandatory reportable disease to the Department of Health Protection and is reported by doctors and laboratories. This enables the quick implementation of preventive measures to prevent the development and spread of the virus.
Source: Gouvernement Princier de Monaco [URL: http://www.gouv.mc//A-la-Une-du-Portail/Le-Gouvernement-Princier-met-en-place-un-dispositif-de-surveillance-des-moustiques3]
Source:
Gouvernement Monaco
