More than 60% of mosquito breeding sites in Nicosia found inside residential properties

The Municipality of Nicosia has intensified mosquito control measures across the city: more than 60% of insect breeding sites are found inside residential properties. The number of complaints from residents has increased noticeably following the recent rains, the municipal health service reported.

Health service chief Michalis Lagos told the Cyprus News Agency (CNA) that the rains, combined with abundant sunshine and high temperatures, had created ideal conditions for mosquitoes to breed. Public health officer Effie Hadjicosti added that staff were working overtime and at weekends to keep up with the flow of reports. The situation is worst in the Engomi area.

According to her, most of the breeding sites that the municipality has to eliminate are located inside homes or on neighbouring properties. “Outbreaks occur because of human behaviour,” Hadjicosti said, listing trays under flowerpots, abandoned swimming pools and bowls of water for pets that are not changed for long periods.

A mosquito’s life cycle lasts about nine days, so removing water promptly breaks the breeding cycle. “If such containers of water are left uncovered and a mosquito lays eggs, a breeding cycle will begin,” Lagos warned. He cited a case in which the source of a mosquito infestation was traced to a single jar of water that had been forgotten inside a house.

At the same time, the municipality is carrying out routine treatment along rivers in the areas of Engomi, Kaimakli, Pallouriotissa and Aglantzia. Residents are asked to inspect the area around their homes after every rainfall and remove standing water, and to report problem areas via the Novoville app or by calling the municipality on 22797000.