The Government has issued advice on how to lower the risk of infections from Tiger mosquitoes, especially as warmer temperatures have arrived.

The Tiger mosquito measures less than a centimetre and is easily recognisable by the black and white stripes on the body and the legs and its totally black wings.

The Tiger mosquito is active during the day and can be the vector of viral diseases such as chikungunya, dengue and zika. However, the insect has been cleared of carrying coronavirus.

The usual measures for reducing mosquito nuisance also apply to the Tiger variety. Pools of standing water should be eradicated, including water left standing in flower pots. Fortunately it flies slowly and can be easily swatted.

Other repellent measures can be used, such as nets over open windows.

None of the tropical diseases transmitted by the Tiger mosquito are transmissible directly from person to person, but if the mosquito bites an infected person it can suck the virus and transmit it to a healthy subject during a new bite.

Symptoms of infection with chikungunya or dengue fever include a temperature above 38.5, headaches, and joint or muscle pains. Zika is suspected in the event of a rash as well as joint and muscle pains. In the event of suspected infection, medical attention should be sought at the Emergency Department of the Princess Grace Hospital.