Invasive Asian Tiger Mosquito Spotted In Michigan Again: Officials

Michigan health officials have confirmed the detection of the Aedes albopictus, also known as the Asian tiger mosquito, in Wayne County. It's the fourth detection of the species in the state.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and Wayne County Health Department identified the first known occurrence of the Asian tiger mosquito in the state in 2021. After the first detection of the invasive species in Michigan in 2017, it was also found in 2018 and again in 2020, according to an official announcement Wednesday.

Typically, the species lives in more tropical to temperate climates, the MDHHS noted, adding that Michigan winters are often "too harsh" for them to survive. However, the warming temperatures have allowed the species to move to more northern regions. Further, the Aedes albopictus is able to live in a broader temperature range and at cooler temperatures than the Aedes aegypti, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention noted.

According to the MDHHS, the species is already considered to be established in states such as Ohio, Indiana and Illinois.

"Occasionally, the mosquitoes will travel in commercial products shipped from states where they are currently established," the MDHHS said. "This is likely how the mosquitoes have shown up in Wayne County in recent years."

Globally, Aedes albopictus has also been reported in places like Albania, France, Germany, Lebanon, Israel and Switzerland, typically because of the movement of products such as tires and "lucky bamboo."

Threat Of Mosquito-Borne Diseases

Aedes albopictus mosquitoes are day biters that are "unusually aggressive." Their eggs are also particularly tolerant to droughts, which is why they can survive even in urban environments. Among the diseases, the species can infect people with are dengue fever, chikungunya and Zika.

"Although we have not had any illnesses associated with these species of mosquitoes in Michigan, it is important to take precautions since other mosquitoes can spread viruses such as West Nile virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis to people," Emerging & Zoonotic Infectious Diseases manager at MDHHS, Dr. Mary Grace Stobierski, said as per the news release.

"Recent heavy rainfall and flooding have led to a general increase in mosquito activity throughout the state, so we urge Michiganders to take precautions such as using an EPA-registered insect repellent when outdoors."

As such, residents of the state are being advised to clear their areas of standing water where mosquito eggs can hatch, wear long-sleeved clothing and long pants to prevent bites, and make sure that their doors and windows have "tight-fitting" screens so mosquitoes won't be able to get in.