West Nile virus detected in UK mosquitoes for first time

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.