It’s feared the accumulation of water and rising temperatures favour the mass hatching of larvae – and these conditions could lead to a surge in cases of the West Nile Virus.

Seven parts of Spain are on “red alert” over an imminent mosquito infestation following the heavy rainfall that has swept the holiday hotspot this week, according to domestic publications. It’s feared the accumulation of water and rising temperatures favour the mass hatching of larvae – and these conditions could lead to a surge in cases of the West Nile Virus.

Throughout March, the series of storms – beginning with Jana and continuing with Konrad, Laurence, and Martinho – has left large accumulations of stagnant water in drains, ponds, abandoned lots, and other surfaces. Experts have warned this has created the perfect breeding ground for these insects and they have insisted that fumigation should wait until much of the accumulated water has temporarily disappeared.

To minimise the presence of mosquitoes in homes, experts recommend Scots tourists install mosquito nets on windows and doors. They’ve been told to place containers with vinegar or lemon halves in strategic locations, as their smell repels them, and use mosquito-repellent plants such as citronella, which give off an unpleasant aroma for them.

Water diffusers with essential oils of eucalyptus and lemon are known for their repellent effect.

And Scots can use homemade traps made with warm water, brown sugar, and yeast, whose fermentation generates gases that attract and trap mosquitoes.

The bites of these insects not only cause annoying itching , but in some people, they can trigger severe allergic reactions.

In cases of excessive inflammation, pharmacists recommend using antihistamine creams to relieve symptoms.

Tourist spots such as Gibraltar and Tarifa – known for its beaches and water sports – as well as natural parks like Los Alcornocales and Roman ruins like Baelo Claudia are at risk.

Andalucia, Seville, Malaga and Granada have also been named.

City councils in high-risk municipalities are required to develop a Municipal Vector Surveillance and Control Plan (PMVCV).

This includes specific measures to reduce mosquito populations and minimise the risk of virus transmission.