Harnessing nature to support local authority in management of nuisance biting mosquitoes and to minimize West Nile virus disease risk in the context of climate change

Description of impact

Since 2017, the Medical Entomology & Zoonoses Ecology (MEZE) group has
worked with Bassetlaw District Council in Nottinghamshire to understand the cause of severe mosquito nuisance issues associated with local river flooding events. The advice we have provided has led to proactive land management changes to create a new wetland for wildlife which have reduced the key nuisance species, and ultimately reduce disease risk. As part of these interventions, MEZE have collected samples for virus testing, and by working with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) have detected the first mosquitoes in the UK positive for West Nile virus (WNV). The new wetland, funded by a nature recovery grant, has managed to reduce mosquito breeding at the site. The project shows the importance of local engagement, supporting local authorities (LAs) on mosquito surveillance and advice
around mosquito control, the importance of mosquito surveillance and virus testing to inform WNV risk assessments, as well as a one-health approach to harnessing the creation of new wetlands and natural predators to reduce the incidence of flood associated risks. Mosquito borne disease risks are increasing under climate change and harnessing UKHSA science to support local intervention is a unique area of
UKHSA expertise and impact. This case study demonstrates UKHSA engagement of national expertise with APHA, civil society, local authority, and landowner
partnership, with tangible evidence of impact. The work was also supported partially through external research funding and generated scientific papers, ensuring evidence-based intervention.

Impact date	Aug 2025
Category of impact	Health impacts