Tshwane takes steps to combat Winterveld 'mosquito infestation'
The Department of Health in Tshwane says the mosquito infestation in the Winterveld area is no cause for alarm.
The department has received several complaints from residents about a mosquito infestation in Wards 9 and 24.
In a statement on Monday, MMC for Health Rina Marx said the municipality has already conducted investigations to determine the extent of the infestation.
“Laboratory tests revealed that this mosquito species is not a disease carrier but can cause irritation due to the female insects that require blood to produce their eggs. Among the possible identified causes of the infestation is the nature of the environment. A major section of the area is a wetland with a high water table. Stagnant water pools encourage the breeding of mosquitos.”
The department says it expects the infestation to ease up during the winter months.
Marx says they are looking into a pesticide programme which could include fogging adult insects and spraying to eliminate the larvae.
This will also include an environmental clean-up campaign.
The department has advised residents to take precautionary measures such as using mosquito repellents, wearing clothes that cover the ankles and arms and avoiding swampy wetland spaces.
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