Mosquito spraying continues

Health service officials started spraying areas in Limassol on Monday to prevent the proliferation of the Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes Albopictus).

Preventive spraying has already taken place in recent weeks in Kato Polemidia, Ayios Ioannis, Apostolos Andreas and Mesa Geitonia is to control the mosquito which can under certain conditions transmit the yellow fever virus and dengue fever.

Due to the recent heavy rains, the health ministry advised the public to empty any containers, boxes, flower pots and other objects that can retain water to prevent the hatching and spread of the Asian tiger mosquito.

It also informed that insecticides will be used in specific public areas and in parks, which will remain closed for 24 hours following the disinfestation.

For more information regarding the operation, the health ministry advised the public to dial the numbers 25884590 or 25716236.

The specific species of mosquito is native to the tropical and subtropical areas of Southeast Asia but it has spread to many countries through the transport of goods and international travel.

This mosquito has become a significant pest in many communities because it closely associates with humans, as opposed to living in wetlands, and typically flies and feeds in the daytime in addition to at dusk and dawn.