The Mosquito Research and Control Unit (MRCU) reports a significant decline in mosquito counts as control efforts continue across the Cayman Islands. Light trap counts in Grand Cayman have fallen from approximately 41,000 mosquitoes on 3 October to approximately 10,000 in the count recorded on 7 October, a reduction of approximately 75%. Mosquito numbers in the Sister Islands are also declining as control operations continue in Cayman Brac and Little Cayman.
This is encouraging progress, but mosquito numbers remain high. The improvement is unlikely to be noticeable to the public at this stage, with elevated biting rates continuing and heavy biting still reported in some areas. MRCU will continue working to reduce numbers further over the coming days.
MRCU’s operational aircraft has reached its 100-hour maintenance interval and has been taken out of service for its mandatory inspection. The inspection is expected to take approximately two weeks. During this period, aerial adult mosquito control operations will be unavailable, and ground control operations will continue.
MRCU’s second aircraft remains grounded while awaiting a replacement part that is not readily available. It will return to service once the part is received and installed and the necessary maintenance checks are completed.
The ongoing ground response includes truck fogging, thermal fogging, larviciding, surveillance and targeted treatments. Teams continue to identify breeding areas, treat larvae before they emerge and reduce adult mosquito populations.
This work is labour intensive, particularly without aerial support. Teams are working during the day and into the evening, often in hot and difficult conditions, to continue bringing mosquito numbers down.
MRCU understands the frustration residents are experiencing. Recent rainfall and high tides have created extensive breeding conditions, and new mosquitoes can continue to emerge even after treatment has taken place. MRCU asks for the public’s patience and understanding as teams continue working across the Cayman Islands to bring mosquito numbers back under control.
For updates on planned mosquito control activities, residents can send a WhatsApp message to 936-8503 and follow the automated response to access MRCU’s Control Activity webpage and other information.
MRCU thanks the public for its continued patience and support.