04/09/2026
🐜 Climate change is reshaping public health risks.
News of the detection of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes and larvae breeding at residential properties in East London is a reminder that emerging public health threats are becoming a reality in the UK.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is undertaking enhanced surveillance and trapping activities following the detection – it is the first time that Aedes aegypti has been identified breeding in the UK. It is the fourth time this species has been detected in the UK in recent years.
Control measures have been implemented to destroy the larvae and the area will continue to be monitored closely to identify and eradicate any further mosquitoes and larvae.
CIEH Vice President Janet Russell said: "While the UKHSA has assessed the immediate risk to the public from this detection as very low, this finding highlights the importance of maintaining and investing in robust environmental health services.
Early-warning systems, monitoring programmes and specialist environmental health expertise are crucial as the range of public health threats associated with climate change continues to evolve."
Natalie Bungay, Head of Technical at the British Pest Control Association, said: “What this does show is why we need to keep a close eye on invasive species. If we spot them early, we’ve got a much better chance of dealing with them before they become established.
“Pest professionals and environmental health teams can play an important part in that. We know what to look for, where pests are likely to breed and what needs to change to make an area less attractive to them.”
Anthony Baldock, Corporate Director for Health and Wellbeing at Ashford Borough Council and Chair of the Association of Port Health Authorities, said the detection is a "timely reminder" that global trade and travel can facilitate the movement of pests and diseases, highlighting the crucial role port health and environmental health professionals play in the UK's biosecurity system.
Read the full response 👇
🔗 https://www.cieh.org/news/press-releases/2026/climate-change-is-reshaping-public-health-risks-cieh-responds-to-invasive-mosquito-detection-in-east-london/