The Joint Services Health Unit (JSHU) of the British Bases (BB) delivered 14 mosquito traps to communities adjacent to the Akrotiri wetlands on June 15, as part of ongoing efforts to reduce nuisance and dangers caused by mosquitoes.
The handover ceremony was attended by officials of the BB Administration, as well as representatives of the Municipality of Kourion, which received 10 traps, and the Limassol Municipality, which received four.
Akrotiri Salt Lake and the surrounding marshy areas are the largest wetland complex in Cyprus and an important station for hundreds of species of migratory birds. Although the area attracts thousands of visitors every year, it is also a breeding ground for mosquitoes, despite the year-round mosquito control program implemented by JSHU.
JSHU Commander, Captain Helen Tokaiqali, said: "As part of our comprehensive mosquito management programme, we are implementing an additional trapping programme, with 14 traps operating throughout the summer and autumn.
"The goal is to reduce nuisance from mosquitoes in local communities, through environmentally friendly methods that respect human and animal health, as well as the natural environment."
BB Entomologist, Dr. Kelly Martinou, added: "On a weekly basis we will monitor and analyze in our laboratory the mosquito species collected from the traps.
"At the same time, citizens should make sure that stagnant water does not remain on their private properties, as they can be breeding grounds for mosquitoes. It is also recommended to take personal protective measures, such as the use of insect repellents, especially during the hours of dusk and dawn."
On behalf of the BB Administration, the Deputy Political Governor of Akrotiri, Antonis Antoniadis, said: "It is with great satisfaction that I announce the official delivery of the mosquito traps by the Chief Civilian Commander of BB, Fleur Thomas, which demonstrates the importance that the Administration attaches to this initiative and our cooperation with the local authorities.
"We await with interest the results that will emerge from the operation of the traps and I thank all the members of the Mosquito Control Team for their continued participation and cooperation."
The Municipalities of Kourion and Limassol will be responsible for the maintenance of the traps, while JSHU will continue to monitor and collect samples for surveillance purposes, sharing its findings with the relevant experts of the Republic of Cyprus.
