London Underground mosquito surge hits Barnet commuters early

Commuters in Barnet and across London are facing an early surge of mosquitoes on the Underground this summer. The species Culex molestus, known for breeding in underground habitats, has increased in number, with reports of bites starting as early as mid-spring. The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine confirmed the early reports, as noted by bite prevention expert Howard Carter.

Carter, CEO of incognito, said the rise in mosquito activity is linked to this year’s hot and dry weather. Stagnant water in Underground tunnels has created ideal breeding conditions, while above-ground water shortages have driven the insects below. He told This Is Local London that the problem could worsen if residents do not take preventive measures.

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Why the surge is happening now

Mosquitoes typically emerge in spring as temperatures rise. This year, warmer weather arrived earlier, leading to an early increase in their numbers. Carter said, "We saw early warm weather this spring, which meant that mosquitoes emerged earlier. Everything's shifted a little bit earlier." The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine reported that people began noticing bites in mid-spring, a time when biting is not usually common.

The species Culex molestus is particularly problematic for Underground passengers. It thrives in the network’s tunnels, where stagnant water provides breeding sites. Carter explained that the current weather conditions have exacerbated the issue. "The current high temperatures and the dry weather this summer has led to the vast numbers of mosquitoes we are experiencing in the Underground network today," he said.

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What residents can do

Carter has developed a four-step prevention system to help commuters reduce bites. The first step is to cleanse the skin thoroughly and replace scented toiletries with citronella or citrus-based products, which mosquitoes avoid. He recommends using repellents like incognito, which claims to be up to 100% effective against mosquitoes for four hours.

The next steps involve using protective accessories, such as bracelets or moisturisers containing Java citronella, and creating an insect-repellent environment with incense sticks or citronella oil. If bites occur, aftercare products can help reduce irritation. Carter warned that without action, the problem could escalate. "If people don’t learn to deal with biting insects now, it will get worse for everyone," he said.

What happens next

It is unclear whether Transport for London will take specific action to address the mosquito surge. The current advice for residents is to follow preventive measures, such as using repellents and avoiding scented products while travelling. The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine has not indicated any further studies or interventions at this stage.

The current high temperatures and the dry weather this summer has led to the vast numbers of mosquitoes we are experiencing in the Underground network today.

Howard Carter, CEO of incognito