An aggressive invasive mosquito species capable of carrying life-threatening diseases has been detected in a new area of San José, California, according to local vector control authorities. The Santa Clara County Mosquito and Vector Control District announced on Friday that the black-and-white-striped insects were found near S. 12th and Martha Streets in East San José.
The mosquitoes, identified as Aedes aegypti, are native to north Africa and are known as aggressive daytime biters. They have been spreading across the United States for decades, with the first official detection in California in 2013, though a 2017 study suggested they had been present earlier. The district warned that the new detection indicates the mosquitoes are increasing in numbers and spreading into more neighborhoods.
These mosquitoes can transmit viral infections such as dengue, Zika, chikungunya and yellow fever, which can sometimes be fatal. However, the district stated that these diseases are not currently circulating in Santa Clara County, but the risk grows as the mosquito population expands. County Health Department Director Sarah Rudman noted that if the mosquitoes become common, they could eventually spread diseases, making mosquito bites a worrisome health risk.
Unlike other mosquito species, Aedes aegypti lay their eggs in containers rather than standing water. Residents who spot the mosquitoes or are bitten are urged to report incidents to the district by calling (408) 918-4770 or emailing vectorinfo@cep.sccgov.org.
