By Stella Mourettou
As temperatures climb and humidity levels increase, mosquitoes are beginning to appear across Cyprus, including the so-called “Tiger” mosquito.
Sotiris Koutsou, a pest control and extermination professional from OnTarget Pest Control & Cleaning Services Ltd, says the situation is strongly linked to Cyprus’ climate. Stagnant water in yards, drains, rooftops, and flower pots also creates ideal breeding conditions. He explains that preventive action is the key to limiting insect populations and protecting homes and businesses, especially during the summer months.
Mosquitoes, including the Tiger mosquito, are starting to appear more frequently. Is this mainly because of the weather?
To a large extent, yes. In Cyprus, the high temperatures and humidity during spring and summer create ideal conditions for mosquitoes to reproduce, including the Tiger mosquito.
At the same time, stagnant water in yards, drains, flower pots, and rooftops allows mosquitoes to breed very easily.
People should take preventive measures such as:
• removing stagnant water,
• installing window screens,
• using suitable insect repellents,
• and properly maintaining yards and outdoor areas.
With proper prevention, mosquito activity around homes and workplaces can be reduced significantly.
How dangerous is the Tiger mosquito? Is it more dangerous than common mosquitoes?
The Tiger mosquito attracts more attention than common mosquitoes because internationally it has been linked to diseases such as dengue fever.
In Cyprus, however, there is no reason for panic. Disease transmission requires very specific conditions, including an infected person and an active transmission cycle. The most important thing is proper information and prevention, not fear.
Has it already spread, or is this just the beginning?
We have been seeing it in different parts of Cyprus for several years now, so this is no longer an isolated occurrence. Cyprus’ climate favors its establishment and spread, especially in residential areas with gardens and humidity.
Where is it usually found?
It is commonly found in yards, flower pot trays, drains, water containers, rooftops, gutters, and anywhere with stagnant water. Even a very small amount of water is enough for mosquitoes to reproduce.
What can people do to protect themselves from mosquitoes?
The most important preventive measures are:
• removing stagnant water,
• cleaning drains and gutters,
• installing screens on doors and windows,
• using suitable insect repellents,
• and properly maintaining outdoor spaces.
Because of Cyprus’ climate, prevention plays a major role since mosquitoes remain active for much of the year.
Have there been recorded disease cases connected to the Tiger mosquito?
Cases of disease transmission have been recorded in Europe, but not in Cyprus. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, with prevention and controlling the spread of the species remaining the main priorities.
The German cockroach is commonly found in kitchens and warm, humid spaces, especially behind ovens, refrigerators, coffee machines, and other electrical appliances.
This is also the season when other insects, such as cockroaches, begin appearing in homes. Why does this happen more during the summer?
In Cyprus, the extreme summer heat significantly increases insect activity.
Cockroaches, ants, and mosquitoes reproduce faster when there is heat, humidity, food, and water available. Many cockroaches also emerge from sewage systems and drains because of rising temperatures and moisture levels.
One of the most common species in Cyprus is the small German cockroach. It is considered one of the hardest species to control because it reproduces quickly and hides in small spaces such as kitchens, cupboards, electrical appliances, and warm, humid areas. A small infestation can quickly become a serious problem if it is not treated early.
What can people do to prevent cockroaches and insects from entering their homes?
The most important preventive measures are:
• maintaining cleanliness,
• avoiding stagnant water,
• thoroughly cleaning drains,
• sealing gaps and cracks,
• storing food properly,
• and installing screens on doors and windows.
In Cyprus, many problems often begin in shared drains and sewage systems in apartment buildings.
Where in the home do they usually appear?
Cockroaches are commonly found under sinks, behind electrical appliances, in kitchens, storage rooms, bathrooms, and near drains or sewage openings.
The German cockroach is usually found in kitchens and warm, humid spaces, especially behind ovens, refrigerators, coffee machines, and similar appliances.
Mosquitoes are usually found on balconies, in yards, and in areas with plants or stagnant water.
Are sprays and insect repellents effective, or is professional treatment necessary?
Retail products can help temporarily, especially in smaller cases. However, when insects continue appearing or there is a serious infestation, professional treatment is usually needed to identify the source and apply the correct solution.
With German cockroaches in particular, simple sprays often shift the problem elsewhere instead of eliminating the nest.
In Cyprus, the issue is often not limited to the apartment itself but may also involve drains, shared spaces, or outdoor breeding areas.
How difficult is it to eliminate them completely?
That depends on the insect species and the conditions of the space. Because of Cyprus’ climate, insects remain active for many months of the year. Prevention and regular maintenance therefore play a very important role.
In many cases, excellent control can be achieved. However, if outdoor breeding areas or problems in shared spaces remain, ongoing monitoring is necessary. The German cockroach is especially persistent and often requires repeated treatments along with proper cooperation from the customer to achieve full control.
How often should extermination treatments be repeated?
For homes in Cyprus, preventive treatments are usually recommended two to four times per year, depending on the area, the season, and the severity of the problem. In restaurants, hotels, and commercial spaces, treatments are carried out more frequently according to monitoring programs and health regulations.
Are these products safe for children and pets?
Approved professional products used in Cyprus are considered safe when applied correctly by licensed professionals and according to instructions. Correct dosage and proper application are the most important factors.
Are there newer pest control methods being used today”
Yes. Today, more targeted and safer methods are used, including gel applications, monitoring traps, growth regulators that interrupt insect development cycles, and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs.
Modern pest control relies not only on spraying but also on prevention, monitoring, and targeted treatment.
Are there certain seasons when insect problems peak in Cyprus?
Yes. In Cyprus, insect activity is highest from spring through autumn, with the hottest summer months bringing the most intense activity. High temperatures especially favor mosquitoes, cockroaches, and ants.
Prevention is the most important issue in Cyprus. Many people wait until a serious infestation appears before taking action, but early prevention makes the biggest difference. Because of the warm climate, insects remain active for much of the year. Preventive measures should therefore be part of the regular maintenance of homes and businesses rather than something people only consider after a problem appears.
Proper preventive treatment helps reduce insect populations, avoid major infestations, maintain better hygiene conditions, and reduce the need for stronger interventions later. Prevention is always more effective, safer, and more cost-efficient than dealing with a serious infestation.
