Fragments of West Nile virus have been detected in UK mosquitoes for the first time, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said.
A research programme by the UKHSA and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) found the genetic material in mosquitoes collected in Britain in 2023.
West Nile virus is a vector borne disease usually found in birds that typically circulates through bird-biting mosquitoes. In rare cases, mosquitoes can transmit the virus to humans.
A UKHSA spokesman said the risk to the general public is “very low” but advice to healthcare professionals will be issued.