Tiger mosquito detected for the first time on La Gomera in Valle Gran Rey

The Canary Islands Health Department has detected adult specimens and larvae of Aedes albopictus for the first time on La Gomera in Valle Gran Rey, activating the entomological monitoring system.

The Canary Islands Health Department (Consejería de Sanidad) has confirmed the first presence of Aedes albopictus, commonly known as the tiger mosquito, on the island of La Gomera. Infected specimens were located at a property (finca) in the municipality of Valle Gran Rey, near the mouth of a barranco. Consequently, the General Directorate of Public Health (Dirección General de Salud Pública) has activated the Entomological Monitoring System across the Canary Islands.

The detection followed a citizen report noting the presence of small mosquitoes and frequent bites. Staff from the Canary Islands Institute of Tropical Urology and Public Health (IUETSPC) examined the site and identified both larvae and adult specimens. Preliminary evidence suggests the species was accidentally introduced as a one-off event via material capable of transporting eggs.

To monitor the spread of the insect, teams have deployed various types of traps and are conducting inspections in the area. These efforts will continue over the coming days. Simultaneously, potential breeding sites are being identified and eliminated. Information regarding the situation is being shared with residents, businesses, and institutions operating in the region.

The Health Department emphasizes that bites have been reported only at the location that triggered the alert. The presence of this species does not automatically imply the transmission of diseases such as dengue, Zika, yellow fever, or chikungunya.