TRNC Chamber of Food Engineers warns of risks from mosquito control

The TRNC Chamber of Food Engineers stated that the fight against mosquitoes — carriers of West Nile virus — must not turn into a new threat to public health: the uncontrolled use of chemicals could contaminate water sources and food products.

Beste Öymen, chair of the board of the chamber, which is part of the Union of Turkish Cypriot Engineers and Architects (KTMMOB), stressed that chemical treatment must be carried out “on a scientific basis, under supervision and as part of an integrated approach.”

Water safety is an inseparable part of food safety, Öymen noted, adding that protecting the sources used to supply water for irrigating agricultural land is particularly important.

Öymen also drew attention to treatment around restaurants, cafés, markets and food production facilities. According to her, chemicals must be prevented from coming into contact with food left uncovered and with drinking water.

The TRNC Ministry of Health previously confirmed three cases of West Nile virus infection in Northern Cyprus. Following this, municipalities stepped up mosquito control measures, including in areas adjacent to the buffer zone.