[Birds, mosquitoes and West Nile virus: little risk of West Nile fever in the Netherlands]. / Van vogels, muggen en West-Nijl-virus: weinig kans op West-Nijl-koorts in Nederland.

Due to increased incidence of West Nile fever (WNF) in Europe and the rapid spread of West Nile virus (WNV) in the US, it is commonly thought that it will only be a matter of time before WNV reaches the Netherlands. However, assessing whether WNV is really a threat to the Dutch population is challenging, due to the numerous factors affecting transmission of the virus. Some of these factors are known to limit the risk of WNF in the Netherlands. This risk is determined by the interaction between the pathogen (WNV), the vectors (Culex mosquitoes), the reservoirs (birds) and the exposure of humans to infected mosquitoes. In this paper, we discuss the factors influencing introduction, establishment and spread of WNV in the Netherlands. The probability that each of these three phases will occur in the Netherlands is currently relatively small, as is the risk of WNF infection in humans in the Netherlands.

[Fighting mosquitoes in the Netherlands: risks and control of exotic mosquitoes]. / Muggenbestrijding in Nederland: risico's en bestrijding van exotische muggen.

Mosquitoes play a significant role globally in the transmission of so-called vector-borne diseases. In the Netherlands, native mosquitoes are capable of transmitting infectious disease. This has not resulted in outbreaks of disease over the last 50 years. The establishment of exotic mosquito species could pose risks to public health, especially in the case of the Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus). Several organisations are working together to prevent the establishment of exotic mosquitoes in the Netherlands. A plan for controlling native mosquito species is also currently being developed.