Asian Tiger Mosquito Now Covers 83 of France's 96 Mainland Departments
The Asian tiger mosquito became established in France in 2004 and is now found in 83 of the country's 96 mainland departments.
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The Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, has become widely established across mainland France since it was first detected there in 2004. By January 1, 2026, it had been established in 83 of France's 96 mainland departments. The species originally comes from Asia and has spread widely through international trade and transport. Its eggs can survive dry conditions, and they can be carried in small containers that hold water, including used tires. Once established, the mosquito also spreads through local movement and favorable urban habitats such as gardens, plant containers, gutters, and other small water-holding sites. The species is medically important because it can transmit viruses including dengue, chikungunya, and Zika. Its success is therefore tied to both its biological traits and the way modern transport and built environments create opportunities for it to establish and spread.
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