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Date Published: 23/05/2022
ARCHIVED - Cartagena intensifies mosquito control as populations spike
Heavy rain in March has led to worrying mosquito population growth in the Murcia city
The heavy rains in March seem like a distant memory in the midst of a heatwave in the Region of Murcia, but the persistent downpours at the start of spring have led to a significant proliferation of mosquitos.
To try to combat an overwhelming invasion of the pests, Cartagena stepped up all larvicide treatments using biological products throughout the municipality, including the city centre, two months ago, and now plans to intensify treatments further with an action plan expected to be announced over the next few days.
Mosquito control is carried out throughout the year, focusing on larval control, especially during the rainy season, which this spring has been heavier than normal. Priority is given to treatments with biological, more environmentally-friendly products, and more aggressive adulticides that can affect other species of insects are kept to localised areas.
"The municipal pest control service has made it a priority to use products and biocides that are as harmless as possible for residents and the environment in integrated pest control, which is why when carrying out adulticide treatments, the treatment areas are kept in mind, avoiding watercourses, sensitive areas next to the Mar Menor, etc.," explained Councillor for Tourism, Trade, Health and Consumer Affairs, Manuel Padín.
He also stressed that only biological larvicide treatments are permitted in all parks and natural areas, "never adulticide treatments, as they are more harmful to the environment".
Mosquitos lay their eggs in water, where they spend their larval stage, hatching at the high temperatures typical of this time of year and when they reach the adult stage they camouflage themselves in the undergrowth and vegetation.
"Members of the public also have the power to reduce the influx of mosquitos, in particular the Aedes albopictus or tiger mosquito, which proliferates in small accumulations of water such as in pots drains and watering cans, causing problems in the neighbourhood," reminded the city council, urging residents to cover any containers, pools and drains.
The council's concessionary company is continuing with its door-to-door service to locate mosquito breeding areas in private homes and gardens, and maintains direct contact with presidents of local neighbourhood associations, so if anyone has a problem with an infestation, they can contact their residents' group or the council directly.
You can call Cartagena pest control on 968 128 957 or email: controlplagas@ayto-cartagena.es
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