Experts spoke about the impact of weather conditions on the invasion of mosquitoes in Russia
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- Experts spoke about the impact of weather conditions on the invasion of mosquitoes in Russia
In the spring and summer of 2026, abnormally high mosquito activity is observed in several regions of Russia. Experts have warned about the risks of bites, allergic reactions and the transmission of dangerous diseases, including West Nile fever and dirofilariasis. Details can be found in the Izvestia article.
Causes of the anomaly
The increase in insect numbers is due to a combination of weather conditions. As explained by Mikhail Gordeev, Head of the Department of General Biology and Bioecology at the State University of Education, the situation was affected by an abnormally snowy winter and a high-water spring. More females survived under the protection of the snow, and river flooding created temporary reservoirs for the development of larvae.
Early warming accelerated the life cycle of insects, which led to their synchronous flight. According to the expert, this is the most significant outbreak in recent decades.
"While maintaining a favorable regime (alternating heat and short-term rains), the growth of the mosquito population may continue until the beginning of August. A decrease in numbers can occur with the onset of persistent hot and arid weather, leading to the drying up of temporary reservoirs and the death of larvae," Gordeev said.
Dangerous symptoms
Bites can cause severe allergic reactions, itching, and swelling. Maxim Maskin, a therapist at Olympus Clinics MARS, warned that when combing the skin, there is a high probability of a secondary infection. In addition, mosquitoes carry diseases such as West Nile fever and dirofilariasis. New species for Russia are also at risk, including the Asian tiger mosquito, which can carry Dengue and Zika viruses.
"Mosquito bites lead to local reactions: itching, redness, swelling, and sometimes a severe allergic reaction. In rare cases, systemic manifestations are possible — fever, headache or general weakness," explained Maskin.
Geography of distribution
The largest number of insects is observed in Bashkortostan, Kabardino-Balkaria, Sverdlovsk, Chelyabinsk, Tyumen, Ryazan, Nizhny Novgorod, Astrakhan and Volgograd regions. High activity is also predicted in the Vologda Oblast and Krasnodar Krai, where malaria mosquitoes have begun to develop urbanized areas.
For protection, Maskin advises using DEET repellents, wearing closed light clothing and installing mosquito nets. The doctor noted that folk methods have a short-term effect. If fever or neurological symptoms occur after bites, you should immediately contact a medical facility.
"Following simple protective measures will minimize risks and enjoy the summer without unpleasant consequences," Maskin concluded.
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