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In a recent development, a virologist has highlighted the likelihood of an increase in mosquito-borne diseases expanding their range following the detection of the West Nile virus in the UK for the first time. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed the presence of virus fragments, which can potentially cause serious illness, in a wetland area in Retford, Nottinghamshire. Prof Jonathan Ball, from the University of Nottingham’s Centre for Global Virus Research, emphasized the impact of climate change in paving the way for tropical viral diseases to establish themselves further north.
As part of a national initiative to better understand mosquito activity across Britain, various locations, including Gamston in Retford, are set to undergo mosquito surveillance this summer. The West Nile virus, as explained by Prof Ball, relies on two hosts – birds and mosquitoes. He noted that while most infected individuals may display mild symptoms like fever, a small percentage could experience more severe illness. Despite the detection of West Nile in Nottinghamshire, there have been no reported cases of local transmission to humans in the UK so far.
Prof Ball reassured the public that the discovery of West Nile in the region should not cause alarm, but rather awareness of the potential spread of such diseases due to global warming. He emphasized the importance of prevention by avoiding mosquito bites through protective clothing and the use of insect repellents. The ongoing project in Gamston involves collaboration between the UK Health Security Agency, Bassetlaw District Council, and Nottinghamshire County Council to enhance surveillance efforts in areas along the River Idle
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