New Mosquito Traps Targeting Aedes Albopictus

August 3, 2016

In an effort to kill the species of mosquitoes that could potentially carry Zika virus, the Department of Health’s Vector Control team is placing In2Care Mosquito Traps around Bermuda.

Close up of the mosquito trap

Mosquito Trap Bermuda August 3 2016 1

“Bermuda is currently Zika free. In addition, Bermuda does not have the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which is the most common and most capable carrier of Zika. However, Bermuda has the less capable but potential carrier, Aedes albopictus,” the Ministry said.

“The new mosquito traps are designed to specifically attract the Aedes mosquito. The trap offers an ideal spot for female mosquitoes to lay eggs: it is dark and utilizes an odor lure. Once the female mosquito lands in the trap, she is exposed to substances that are lethal to her and to her larvae.”

Programme Manager for Vector Control & Port Health Armell Thomas and Minister Atherden place the first mosquito trap

Mosquito Trap Bermuda August 3 2016 2

Minister of Health & Seniors, Jeanne Atherden said: “We must all do our part to keep Bermuda Zika free. We are fortunate to have a very good Vector Control team but they cannot possibly be everywhere.

“Check your property and even your workplace. You are not just protecting yourself, you are protecting your family, friends, neighbours and visitors. When you are abroad, please remember to protect yourself from bites so you don’t bring Zika home with you.”

Dwaine Swan – District Vector Control Officer, Leroy Stevens – General Forman, Armell Thomas and Minister Atherden

Mosquito Trap Bermuda August 3 2016 3

Armell Thomas, the programme manager for Vector Control and Port Health said, “We are aware of the instances of Zika in Miami and there has been some focus on the potential for Zika in Bermuda recently.

“We want the public to know that we are proactively using new methods like these traps to control Aedes albopictus and other types of mosquitoes. The best way to decrease the possibility of mosquito-borne illness is to get rid of the mosquitoes.”

CITV Programme

Mr. Thomas added: “Check your property and eliminate all standing water and call Vector Control for assistance if you are being bitten.

“While we are working to reduce the risk through these traps and ongoing surveillance of properties, Bermuda is still at risk for Zika. If you take the time to tip standing water, you are doing the right thing.”

Travellers are reminded to see a physician if feeling ill upon returning to Bermuda, especially if travel has been in an area where Zika is circulating.

For detailed information on Zika from the Chief Medical Officer and Nurse Epidemiologist, watch the CITV program available above, and also airing next week on CITV

Information is also available on the Government portal here.

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Comments (7)

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  1. sage says:

    Here minister, smile and pretend you actually work…

  2. Albie says:

    Okay it’s great to see that government is starting to get its act together to address the Zika issue.

    So the questions that come to mind are,
    Is this a tried and successful device for the Zika mosquito?
    What is the effective range for this trap?
    How many has government purchased?
    If it works how many will be needed?
    How much do they cost?
    How often do they need to be cleaned and the attractant etc recharged?
    What is the cost to recharge?
    Does this device kill all the other mosquito types already here?
    Will there be a need for more staff?

    Also has the Tourism Authority been informed so they can advertise Bermuda as being Zika free?
    Zika is rampant through the the Caribbean being Zika free could be a huge plus for our tourism numbers.

    • sage says:

      Did they not say the zika mosquito doesn’t exist here?

      • Albie says:

        Are you happy to be bitten by the others?

      • Zevon says:

        You need to read and comprehend the article. Not your strong points, I know.

  3. sure. says:

    Awesome job on the preventative measures for preventing Zika Virus here in Bermuda. Although I wish it were something brought to the forefront when the Virus first made the headlines in other places, it is better late than never.

  4. Factual says:

    I’m surprised no one else has asked this: Do these traps harm any other wildlife on the island? Frogs? Birds? Cats? Dogs? Beneficial insects? Children?