First detection of Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae) in the Balearic Islands (Spain) and assessment of its establishment according to the ECDC guidelines

Abstract

The Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes (Stegomyia) albopictus is an invasive mosquito species of major concern to public health because of its vector role in transmission of several pathogens of human and animal health importance. This species was first detected in Europe (Albania) in 1979. Since then, at least eighteen additional European countries have reported its presence. In 2004, this mosquito was detected for the first time in Spain (Catalonia). Here we report, for the first time, the presence and establishment of Ae. albopictus on the island of Majorca (Balearic Islands, Spain). However, the introduction pathway of this species in Majorca has not yet been identified. The prompt surveillance programme implemented according to the guidelines of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) rapidly permitted a determination of the expansion of Ae. albopictus on the island. The information obtained from this study might be useful to plan mosquito control measures avoiding the spread of this vector species to the entire island.