The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has announced the first detection of West Nile virus (WNV) in mosquitoes in England.

The virus was identified through routine surveillance activities, specifically in mosquito populations across the South East of England.

No human cases of West Nile virus have been confirmed in the UK, and the risk to the general public is currently considered low.

West Nile virus is primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito, and it can infect humans, birds, and other animals.

Most people infected with WNV will not experience any symptoms. However, some individuals may develop flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, and fatigue.

In rare cases, WNV can cause severe illness, including encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord).

The UKHSA is working with local authorities and other organizations to monitor the situation and assess the risk of further spread.

Public health advice emphasizes preventing mosquito bites. This includes using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and trousers, and removing standing water where mosquitoes can breed.

The detection of WNV highlights the importance of ongoing mosquito surveillance and the need for public awareness of the virus and preventative measures.

Further investigations are underway to determine the specific mosquito species carrying the virus and to assess the potential for localized outbreaks.