UKHSA confirms first Aedes aegypti breeding in east London, risk judged very low
The health agency detected the tropical mosquito at residential sites, launched control actions and warned climate change may raise future sightings.
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The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) announced on 29 July 2026 that larvae of the tropical mosquito Aedes aegypti were found in two east London homes. This is the fourth time the species has been recorded in the United Kingdom, but the first instance where breeding has been confirmed. The discovery was made through the agency’s Mosquito Watch scheme, which encourages the public to report unusual mosquito activity.
Why the species matters
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Aedes aegypti is known for transmitting viruses such as dengue, Zika and chikungunya in regions where those diseases circulate. The insect normally thrives in tropical and subtropical climates and struggles to survive the cooler conditions typical of most of the UK. Dr Jolyon Medlock, head of medical entomology and zoonoses ecology at UKHSA, explained that the species is not expected to become established long‑term because the national climate remains generally unsuitable.
"While Aedes aegypti can transmit diseases such as dengue, chikungunya and Zika virus in countries where these infections are circulating, the risk to the public from this finding is assessed as very low."
Dr Jolyon Medlock, UKHSA
Agency response
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Following the detection, UKHSA teams applied larvicidal treatment to the affected properties and surrounding gardens to eradicate the immature insects. The agency has also expanded trapping and monitoring in the neighbourhood to track any further presence. In a statement, UKHSA said the Mosquito Watch scheme will continue to collect reports and that residents should remove any containers that hold stagnant water, such as buckets, plant pots and garden troughs.
What this means for Harrow residents
Although the breeding sites were located outside the London Borough of Harrow, the advisory applies to all London households. Harrow Council has not reported any local findings, but it will cooperate with UKHSA if similar incidents arise. The agency warned that climate change could increase the frequency of invasive mosquito sightings across the country, making community vigilance increasingly important.
Questions this report answers
+What was found in east London?
UKHSA identified larvae of the Aedes aegypti mosquito in residential properties, confirming the first breeding of this tropical species in the United Kingdom. The finding came through reports submitted to the Mosquito Watch scheme.
+How risky is the mosquito to the public?
Dr Jolyon Medlock of UKHSA said the public‑health risk is assessed as very low. The species can transmit serious viruses elsewhere, but there is no evidence of local disease transmission and the climate does not support long‑term survival.
+What actions have been taken after the discovery?
UKHSA applied control measures to destroy the larvae, increased surveillance and trapping in the area, and issued public advice to eliminate standing water. The agency will continue monitoring through Mosquito Watch and other programmes.
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