UK holidaymakers are being alerted about a potentially lethal disease after insects were spotted at two popular Spanish destinations. Tiger mosquitoes have been found on both the islands of Mallorca and Minorca, leading officials to deploy helicopters to spray pesticides in an attempt to eradicate them.
These aggressive mosquitoes are easily distinguishable from other species due to their distinctive stripes. They are carriers of yellow fever and dengue, as well as Zika, which can lead to birth defects. Their bites are more painful than those of European mosquitoes and can result in severe swelling, scarring, and in some instances, infection.
There is concern that changing climate conditions are facilitating the spread of these mosquitoes, as increased heat and humidity allow them to thrive further north in Europe. Experts have warned that the upcoming Olympics in Paris could see diseases spread by these mosquitoes.