Mosquito invasion hits Buenos Aires and its surroundings

One month on from the last swarms, a second invasion of mosquitoes is plaguing the streets of Buenos Aires City and its surroundings. 

The arrival of the blood-sucking insects is increasing concerns about the spread of Dengue in the region, with local residents increasingly calling for fumigations to tackle the spread of the aedes albifasciatus species, also known as “flood mosquitoes,” that are irritating Argentines in and around the capital.

The arrival of the mosquitoes is the second such influx since the turn of the new year. Experts warn that the swarms are expected to last several weeks, as adult mosquitoes have a lifespan of approximately 20 days. In case of additional rainfall, the stretch could be extended. 

The plague has been prompted by rain, which suits the breeding strategy of the species. Heavy downpours can induce flooding and puddles, creating pools of stagnant liquid where mosquitoes can swarm and copulate, leaving larvae to develop in the standing water.

The sheer number of mosquitoes this year has prompted peculiar sights – earlier this week, "clouds of mosquitoes" were seen and filmed by residents in La Plata. 

The Buenos Aire Province government announced this week that it would continue distribution of free repellent to residents to prevent dengue and the spread of other diseases transmitted by the insects.

Free bug repellent is available at public hospitals, health and CESAC community action centres, as well as neighbourhood medical centres. To obtain the benefit, residents must present a document proving their residence is in Buenos Aires Province.

The use of repellent is one of the most effective measures to prevent Dengue, Zika and Chikungunya diseases. Repellents should be applied evenly to exposed skin, every two hours or more often if sweating or wetting, experts recommend.

The sudden increase in mosquitoes triggered soaring price increases of repellents. The most effective products are those containing ingredients such as DEET, Citronella, IR-3535 and Icaridin.

Although repellents are not highly effective against aedes albifasciatus, experts say their use is an important measure to prevent bites. Experts recommend taking additional measures, such as installing mosquito nets on doors and windows, using indoor and outdoor coils and sprays, and eliminating possible mosquito breeding sites.

– TIMES/NA