British base authorities donate mosquito traps to Akrotiri wetland communities

On June 15, the Joint Services Health Unit (JSHU) of the British Sovereign Base Areas (SBAA) donated 14 mosquito trapping units to local communities. The Kourion municipality received 10 units, while the Limassol municipality received four. These traps are part of an integrated mosquito management program intended to operate through the summer and autumn months. The Akrotiri wetlands, serving as both a major migratory bird habitat and a mosquito breeding ground, require ongoing monitoring despite year-round control efforts. Capt. Helen Tokaiqali stated that the initiative aims to reduce public nuisance using environmentally friendly methods. Entomologist Dr. Kelly Martinou noted that captured mosquitoes will undergo weekly laboratory analysis to monitor species. Officials also advised residents to eliminate stagnant water on private property and use personal protection measures like repellents. The initiative is a collaborative effort between SBAA administration and local municipal representatives.