MIONS, France – A groundbreaking technological solution is being implemented in Mions, near Lyon, to combat the proliferation of the tiger mosquito. Fifteen million special sterile male tiger mosquitoes will be released in the commune over the next three years, with five million released annually from 2026 to 2028, according to Le Progrès.
Sterile Mosquitoes: A Counter-Intuitive but Effective Solution
Mickaël Paccaud, Mayor of Mions, has partnered with Terratis, a specialized company, for this initiative, incurring a total cost of 120,000 euros. While releasing mosquitoes to fight mosquitoes may seem counter-intuitive, these are specially bred specimens designed to lead their species to extinction. Raised in laboratories and exposed to a low dose of X-rays, these male mosquitoes are sterilized before being released into areas heavily affected by tiger mosquitoes.
Once in nature, their mating with wild females does not produce offspring, effectively reducing the mosquito population. Estimates suggest a 50% reduction in the first year, followed by up to a 90% reduction in subsequent years.
Proven Effectiveness in Other Regions
This solution, currently being piloted in only three French cities, including Mions, has already demonstrated its effectiveness in several other countries. It promises to mitigate the threat posed by this invasive species, which originated in tropical regions of Southeast Asia and has been infesting France for over a decade, particularly in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, where a favorable climate aids its spread.
A Pesticide-Free and Environmentally Friendly Approach
Traditionally, authorities have resorted to large-scale nocturnal insecticide spraying to control mosquito populations. However, these methods have significant environmental impacts, requiring residents to stay indoors with their pets and clean their garden furniture, with a three-day ban on consuming produce from their vegetable gardens.
The stakes are high, as the tiger mosquito is a carrier of numerous viruses and parasites, including dengue and chikungunya, making it one of the deadliest insects globally. In 2024, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes recorded 274 known cases of tropical diseases transmitted by mosquitoes.
Weekly Releases and Public Safety
Approximately 200,000 sterile male mosquitoes will be released weekly across 30 points in the commune of Mions. The first operation took place on Friday, April 24, 2026.
It is important to note that male tiger mosquitoes do not bite. This innovative approach not only reduces the risk of tropical disease transmission but also promises more serene summers for the residents of Mions.
