Scientists at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) are now probing the Thames estuary for mosquitoes and their larvae in a desperate attempt to thwart the spread of a mutant super-strain of the mosquito borne disease.
Speaking to us from his Loch Ness Research Project, Professor Kettle said, “The real worry for us in the Highlands of Scotland and Loch Ness is that climate change has warmed us up and may bring the pox with it. We have very large mosquitoes and if they cross-breed with our midges, it could be armageddon”.
The Highlands of Scotland Tourist Board was unavailable for comment but has issued a watching brief to the professor. “Malaria was endemic in England until the end of the 1800s and we are also on notice from the world health organisations to be on the look out for deadly West Nile Virus.”
Everyone must take precautions and be constantly aware of the hazards all around us. It is not thought that Nessie is at risk from either virus.