Health officials in Seoul are urging residents to take extra precautions against mosquito bites after disease-carrying mosquitoes were detected one to two weeks earlier than average this year.

According to the Seoul Metropolitan Government Research Institute of Public Health and Environment, monitoring conducted since late March found that while the overall mosquito population is similar to previous years, mosquitoes capable of transmitting malaria appeared about two weeks earlier than usual, while species associated with imported diseases such as dengue fever emerged about one week earlier.

Despite the early appearance, laboratory testing has so far found no malaria, dengue, or other disease pathogens in mosquitoes collected across Seoul.

The warning comes after national authorities issued a Japanese encephalitis alert on June 17 and a malaria advisory on June 22.

Officials noted that a similar early emergence in 2024 coincided with an increase in mosquito-borne infections in Seoul, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and prevention.

The institute said it will continue mosquito surveillance and pathogen testing throughout the season and will immediately share any signs of disease activity with relevant agencies.

Residents are encouraged to eliminate standing water around homes, including water collected in flower pots, buckets, and other containers where mosquitoes can breed. Officials also recommend wearing long sleeves and long pants outdoors, using insect repellent, and ensuring window screens remain in good condition.

Anyone who develops symptoms such as fever or chills after visiting a malaria-risk area should seek medical attention promptly.

Former military personnel who completed service in malaria-risk areas within the past two years are eligible for free malaria testing at local public health centers, even if they are not experiencing symptoms.

USAG Yongsan

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