Greece Intensifies Mosquito Control Amid West Nile Virus Concerns

The Attica region is escalating its mosquito control program, employing both aerial and ground-based spraying across all 66 municipalities. This comprehensive strategy aims to protect public health and the environment by combating the rising mosquito population. The initiative is particularly crucial as Greece records one-quarter of all West Nile virus cases in Europe, ranking second only to Italy. The Attica region itself accounts for the majority of these cases nationwide, with the Hellenic National Public Health Organization (EODY) noting a particularly intense circulation of the virus.

To ensure timely prevention, Attica launched its mosquito control operations on March 1st, 2025. This early start involved extensive sampling of mosquito larvae and mapping of breeding sites. These efforts cover peri-urban, rural, and natural environments, including water bodies and flooded areas near residential zones. The program's coordination falls under the Health Control and Environmental Hygiene Directorates of the Regional Units, with local Mosquito Technical Committees overseeing its proper implementation and evaluation.

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Ensuring public health and the effective protection of our citizens, especially on issues related to disease prevention and environmental impacts, remains a top priority for us in the Attica Region. The comprehensive mosquito control program is implemented with planning, consistency, and technical competence in all municipalities of the basin, without exceptions.

Nikos Hardalias emphasized the region's commitment, stating, "Ensuring public health and the effective protection of our citizens, especially on issues related to disease prevention and environmental impacts, remains a top priority for us in the Attica Region." He highlighted the program's systematic and technically sound execution across all municipalities. "We combine scientific knowledge with modern means – ground and aerial – while fully utilizing the expertise and experience of our services to anticipate and mitigate any potential risks arising from the increase in mosquito populations," Hardalias added. The operations are conducted with respect for the environment and human well-being, representing a daily battle for public health protection.

The region is currently in its fifth cycle of ground-based larviciding, using spray vehicles in breeding sites around municipalities and in ecologically sensitive areas. A total of 24 application cycles are planned for the year. Aerial spraying has also commenced, with four applications already completed. The program integrates scientific knowledge with modern technology, ensuring comprehensive coverage and effective risk mitigation throughout Attica.

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We combine scientific knowledge with modern means – ground and aerial – while fully utilizing the expertise and experience of our services, to anticipate and mitigate any potential risks arising from the increase in mosquito populations. The implementation of the program is carried out with absolute respect for the environment and people and is a continuous, daily battle for the protection of public health.