Greater prevention and control to avoid the proliferation of mosquitos
Every year the Barcelona Public Health Agency identifies public spaces where mosquitos may proliferate, the goal being to eliminate breeding spots, particularly for the tiger mosquito, due to the possible transmission of imported diseases. The agency has identified 82 hotspots in the city which are to be controlled, mainly in the districts of Sants-Montjuïc and Horta-Guinardó. The process also entailed the application of criteria on social inequalities in health, with the focus this year on controlling mosquitos in areas around schools and homes for the elderly.
The map of 82 hotspots representing the greatest risk of mosquitos in the city is based on data collected by the Urban Pest Surveillance and Control Service. The map takes into account data on the presence of these insects in the previous year, the areas where there is an epidemiological risk and social inequalities in health.
By district, most risk spots are concentrated in the district of Sants-Montjuïc (16), Horta-Guinardó (11), Nou Barris (10) and Ciutat Vella (9). By area, Horta-Guinardó is the district with the most square metres corresponding to risk points.
Control of breeding spots in public space and at home
The map by the Barcelona Public Health Agency (ASPB) helps control public space to avoid the reproduction of breeding spots, such as ornamental fountains and scuppers. These are places where water can accumulate, facilitating the reproduction of these insects. The ASPB made 26,973 checks on these elements in 2021, detecting the presence of mosquitos in 406 of them and carrying out 4,400 treatments with biological larvicides.
Getting the public involved in prevention tasks is also a key factor, as most mosquito breeding spots are found on private property. The ASPB recommends weekly checks on outdoor areas at home, to avoid the accumulation of water in puddles, plant pots, buckets and vases.
