Paris seeks to eradicate mosquitoes before the Olympics.

In France, the Parisian authorities are implementing various measures to control and eradicate Aedes mosquitoes that spread infectious diseases before the start of the Summer Olympics.

Aedes mosquitoes can spread many infectious diseases. Photo: CDC — Aedes mosquitoes can spread many infectious diseases. Photo: *CDC*

France is scrambling to ensure that Aedes mosquitoes carrying viruses don't ruin the Paris Olympics for athletes and fans, along with millions of tourists converging on the capital for the Summer Games, AFP reported on March 24. Aedes mosquitoes have spread across much of northern Europe, including France, over the past two decades, transmitting dangerous diseases such as dengue fever, chikungunya, and Zika.

Climate change is helping Aedes mosquitoes adapt more easily to colder climates. Authorities have reported that Normandy in the northwest, the last mosquito-free region in France, has recently seen a resurgence of mosquitoes similar to other parts of the country. They are seeking ways to eradicate the mosquitoes, including fumigating many areas in Paris, a technique commonly used in tropical cities.

However, the Paris Olympics are only four months away. Experts predict that a single mosquito bite could ruin an athlete's chance to compete. "When you're sick with dengue fever, you can't jump over any obstacles," emphasized Didier Fontenille, an entomologist and infectious disease expert. "Cities hosting competitions, especially the Olympic Village, need to be mosquito-free." Health officials have promised to increase monitoring of the mosquito threat, a species that is very difficult to eradicate. France recorded 45 cases of dengue fever last year, contributing to the local spread of the virus.

Aedes mosquitoes thrive best in cities, where stagnant puddles provide ideal conditions for them to lay their eggs. According to Fontenille, treating stagnant water, including leftover water in flower pots or dishcloths, can help mitigate the problem. Sprays, mosquito nets, and organic insecticides for mosquito larvae can be effective. Mosquito traps, which mimic human body odor to attract and kill mosquitoes, also show promise.

Biogents, a mosquito control company, won a contract to protect Marseille Marina, the venue for the sailing competition, with a plan to install 15 mosquito traps. Co-director Hugo Plan shared that they will begin installation next month across more than one hectare in damp, shady areas. Throughout the Games, company staff will regularly check the 80cm-tall metal boxes used to catch mosquitoes. The fight against the Aedes mosquito has opened up a thriving business. The French company Qista says it has installed 13,000 insect control devices in 26 countries over the past decade.

An Khang (According to Phys.org )

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