Two dangerous mosquito species confirmed to be permanently present in Cyprus

The permanent presence in Cyprus of two potentially dangerous mosquito species — the Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) and the yellow fever mosquito (Aedes aegypti) — has been officially confirmed. This was announced by Hasan Sarpten, former chairman of the Association of Biologists and a lecturer.

According to him, mosquito numbers have increased noticeably following the recent rains and sharp rise in temperatures. He attributed this mainly to inadequate control of stagnant water bodies, where the insects breed.

Sarpten noted that the presence of both species has been officially confirmed by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). The Asian tiger mosquito was first detected in Kyrenia in 2022, while since August 2023 the yellow fever mosquito has been considered a species with a permanent population on the island.

Both species can transmit dangerous diseases, including dengue fever, Zika virus and chikungunya.

The expert called for an end to the seasonal approach and urged systematic mosquito control throughout the year. In his opinion, the work of municipalities should be coordinated through a single centre under the Ministry of Health.