Sixth Science Episode 55: Fighting the Tiger Mosquito

Bzzzz. Do you recognize the sound of the tiger mosquito? These insects that carry tropical diseases not only disturb your nights, but also permanently settle in France. for 55 his^e Sixth science cycle ال science podcast Science and the future And the 20 minutes, tells you all about this dreaded enemy who is now the subject of improved surveillance.

The tiger mosquito arrived in France in 2004

At the microphone, Loïc Chauveau, journalist specializing in environmental topics at Science and the future, and Roman Clomis from 20 minutes, but no mosquitoes.

However, with the beautiful season, Aedes albinoto our temperate climates. Existence is now synonymous with the spread of tropical diseases: Zika, chikungunya, dengue. This sedentary Asian insect (which does not move more than 200 meters from the place of its birth) arrived in France in 2004, and today it is in 64 divisions. Thus three dengue outbreaks were identified in 2020 in southern France. Also, to prevent harm, scientists are organized and use the main means: the development of new insecticides, sterilization processes and radiation.

How to help control mosquitoes

By listening to this episode, you will also know how you can contribute to the fight against mosquitoes (in emptying the cups of flower pots, brushing them, etc.).

And if you want to learn more about mosquito control, find the whole topic in the summer double issue of Science et Avenir of July-August 2021 on sale at your newsagent. In between the two bites, you can also dive in In the Sixth Science Archives.