The Bases’ Joint Services Health Unit has handed over 14 mosquito‑trapping units to communities around the Akrotiri wetlands as part of an expanded effort to curb nuisance insects and reduce disease risks.
Sovereign Base Areas Administration officials attended the June 15 presentation, along with representatives from Kourion — which received 10 traps — and Limassol Municipality, which received four.
The Akrotiri Salt Lake and surrounding marshes make up Cyprus’ largest wetland complex and a major stopover for migratory birds. The area also provides ideal mosquito‑breeding conditions despite year‑round control work by the JSHU.
Capt. Helen Tokaiqali, officer commanding the unit, said the new traps form part of an integrated management program operating through summer and autumn. “The aim is to minimize nuisance from mosquitoes for the local communities using environmentally friendly methods that respect human and animal health and the natural environment,” she said.
Bases entomologist Dr. Kelly Martinou said species caught in the traps will be monitored weekly in the laboratory. She urged residents to prevent stagnant water from forming on private property and to use personal protection such as repellent, especially at dusk and dawn.
Deputy Area Administration Officer Antonis Antoniades, speaking for the SBAA, said the handover by Chief Officer Fleur Thomas underscored the administration’s commitment to the initiative and cooperation with local authorities. “We look forward to seeing the results these trapping units produce,” he said.
Kourion and Limassol authorities will maintain the traps, while the JSHU will continue collecting samples and sharing findings with experts in the Republic of Cyprus.
