CBH Warns of Anticipated Surge in Mosquito Population

Due to heavy showers in certain areas of the country over the past week, there is likely to be a significant increase in the mosquito population.

Principal Public Health Inspector Julienne Mannix has indicated that the breeding cycle for most types of mosquitoes is approximately seven days.

With the heavy rains starting last week Saturday, residents can anticipate a surge in the mosquito population.

Of particular concern are the Aedes Taeniorhynchus or Black Salt Marsh Mosquitoes, which thrive in stagnant water on the ground and in various catchments around homes, such as car tires, cans, and old drums.

Mannix emphasized that due to the breeding cycle, there will likely be a notable increase in these and other mosquitoes over the next week, especially with the saturated ground creating pools of water around many homes.

Following persistent heavy rains, it is common for the Vector Control Unit of the CBH to receive requests for assistance in addressing mosquito outbreaks.

It’s important to note that the black salt marsh mosquito is not associated with the dangerous diseases linked to the aedes aegypti mosquito. However, it is considered a nuisance due to its tendency to cling to clothing and move in large groups.

The department is planning to intensify its vector control measures, which will include treating stagnant waters around homes and addressing areas in some communities where large pools of water accumulate on the ground.

Furthermore, fogging exercises will be ongoing in communities affected by heavy rains and where water remains on the ground.

Involvement from homeowners is crucial, as they can contribute to the effort by eliminating all stagnant water around their homes and covering catchments such as blue plastic drums.