West Nile virus detected in UK mosquitoes for first time

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Fragments of West Nile virus have been detected in UK mosquitoes for the first time, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said.

A research programme by the UKHSA and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) found the genetic material in mosquitoes collected in Britain in 2023.

West Nile virus is a vector borne disease usually found in birds that typically circulates through bird-biting mosquitoes. In rare cases, mosquitoes can transmit the virus to humans.

A UKHSA spokesman said the risk to the general public is “very low” but advice to healthcare professionals will be issued.

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