On Tuesday, the Ministry of Health, Local Authorities and TEPAK proceeded to take measures to limit or even eliminate the two types of mosquitoes, which were recently detected in Limassol and Larnaca and characterized according to the authorities “as dangerous for humans”.
In an afternoon meeting, the Health Services of the Ministry of Health informed the representatives of the Local Government of Limassol and Larnaca, as well as the representatives of the Ministries of Agriculture and Defense, about the two specific types of mosquitoes.
It is recalled that these are the species Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti, for which there is currently no cause for concern, since there are no infectious diseases in Cyprus that they can transmit.
In his statements, the Minister of Health, Michalis Hatzipantela, said that during the meeting measures were decided and specifically, informational material will be sent from the Ministry of Health to the Municipalities and Communities, so that it can be immediately forwarded to the citizens for information. They will also proceed to record all abandoned tires and a report will be sent to the Municipalities and Communities of Limassol and Larnaca, for receipt by the Ministry of Agriculture. from the Ministry of Health and will be made available to all communities, to note that personnel trained in spraying will be made available from the National Guard.
In addition, he said that it was decided that in the event of any outbreak of specific mosquito species, the Ministry of Health should be informed immediately, so that additional measures can be taken
The Mayor of Limassol, Nikos Nicolaidis, described the Minister's initiative as “correct” of Health to call a meeting so they can see how they are dealing with the problem.
As the Mayor of Limassol said, “at this stage the phenomena are not alarming, nor is there any reason for special concern”, however, he noted that “we should be ready and know the methodology to deal with it or limit it or even eliminate it.”
Already, he added, “the municipalities in which this type of mosquito has appeared are taking measures. There does not seem to be any alarming spread of it, however, we are here to prepare for any eventuality”. of Health Services and Municipalities and Communities and has proceeded to train staff to deal with this problem.
He called on people not to panic, while he stressed that staff “are already ready and are taking all appropriate measures , regarding door-to-door surveillance”.
He also mentioned that there should be a battle with old tires, animal feeders and garbage in yards of houses and neighborhoods, to complement TEPAK is close to support this the project research and operational.
