Introduction of Aedes albopictus in Spain:: a new challenge for public health

Introduction: A spectacular increase was noticed in the number of consultations for insect stings at the Sant Cugat Primary Care Center (Barcelona, Spain). Subsequent study of the species in the area identified Aedes albopictus. Objective: To analyze consultations for insect stings in this center (1998-2004). Methods: A descriptive, cross sectional study with a 7-year retrospective review was performed. A total of 2,760 patients consulted. Results: A continual increase in the number of consultations for insect stings was detected, reaching 16 consultations per 1,000 inhabitants. The mean age of the patients was 32 years and 62% were women. Seventy-one percent of the stings were located on the extremities and 19% were infected. Sixty-seven percent of the patients received systemic treatment. Conclusions: Primary care alerted the town council of the significant increase in consultations for insect stings. Patients consulting for this reason were predominantly young women who frequently received systemic treatment and showed a high percentage of local complications.