Mosquito Control Operations in Lescar and Lons Triggered by Imported Case, Regional Health Agency Vigilant
following the identification of an imported case of arbovirosis (potentially chikungunya, dengue, or zika) in a resident who frequented areas of Lescar, the town and neighboring Lons have undergone targeted mosquito control operations. The interventions, conducted by the company Altopicus, aim to prevent any potential local transmission of these viruses.
The individual contracted the infection while abroad and, upon returning, visited several districts in the west of the agglomeration.While the specific virus type remains undisclosed by the Lescar town hall, the operations focused on a 150-meter radius around the locations frequented by the infected person, reflecting the tiger mosquito’s limited range.
“We were informed that a person who stayed in Lescar had been infected. It is indeed thus not an indigenous case but an imported case,” explained Lescar Mayor Valérie Revel.
Lons had previously experienced similar interventions earlier this summer. mayor Nicolas Patriarche confirmed the town hall’s role in facilitating the operation, ensuring access for Altopicus and distributing informational leaflets to affected residents.
The control measures involved insecticide spraying from vehicles, supplemented by targeted request in outdoor spaces. The insecticides used are based on Pyrethrinoids or Natural Pyrethrines, compounds commonly found in over-the-counter mosquito repellents.
Residents were proactively informed and advised to take precautions during the spraying, including bringing laundry and toys indoors, sheltering pets, protecting beehives and water features, and closing windows. Post-operation recommendations included rinsing garden furniture, prioritizing indoor activities for children, and waiting three days before consuming produce from vegetable gardens.
Town halls emphasized the importance of balancing mosquito control with environmental concerns, noting the potential risks to biodiversity and the progress of insecticide resistance. they reiterated the need for continued individual efforts to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds by removing standing water.
Regional Spread & Prevention
The operations underscore the growing presence of the Asian tiger mosquito in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. As of January 1,2025,the mosquito has been detected in 1,485 municipalities – 34% of the region’s total – representing a critically important increase of 565 municipalities in the past year.
The mosquito, identifiable by its black and white striped markings, is active during the day and known for its aggressive biting behavior. It can transmit dengue, chikungunya, and zika virus if it bites an infected person. The ARS Nouvelle-Aquitaine (Regional Health Agency) maintains increased vigilance due to the ongoing identification of imported cases.
Effective prevention relies on simple measures: emptying containers holding stagnant water (buckets, cans, etc.), covering water storage, maintaining gutters, and regularly changing water in vases and pet dishes. These actions are crucial to limiting the proliferation of this invasive species.
