CYPRUS BITES BACK!
CYPRIOT AUTHORITIES BATTLE MOSQUITO CLUSTERS ACROSS THE ISLAND
A RENEWED DRIVE TO REDUCE NUMBERS
A SOURCE OF GREAT CONCERN
Whilst mosquitoes in Cyprus have been a source of great concern for several years, a recent surge in their numbers has prompted authorities to take decisive action to reduce their numbers. This has led health authorities across Cyprus to employ various tools and strategies to identify and then eradicate them.
A STRATEGY FOR ERADICATION
Authorities are using advanced technology and a proven strategy to help reduce mosquito numbers in Cyprus. Mosquito clusters, which mainly form during the summer months, are identified by using advanced GPS systems. These areas are then secured and are subjected to the necessary pest control methods, actively reducing their numbers.
PRIME BREEDING GROUNDS
Mosquito clusters are usually found at abandoned water sources, such as unmaintained swimming pools. These types of water sources have become prime breeding grounds for the insects. Researchers studying mosquitoes have also identified up to 22 different species currently in Cyprus.
STERILE TREATMENT CENTRES
Treatment centres are also using another method to reduce mosquito numbers in Cyprus. Treatment centres are using ionising radiation to sterilise male mosquitoes. These are then subsequently released into the wild without the ability to reproduce. This increases the competition for otherwise fertile males, which in turn reduces their overall numbers
