MRCU begins island-wide mosquito attack

Cayman Islands MRCU aircraft

(CNS): Biting mosquitos are under coming under attack today as the Mosquito Research & Control Unit (MRCU) begins aerial operations over the swamp areas, where the pesky insects breed, on Grand Cayman and the Sister Islands. Some 12,000 acres of swamp are targeted in this operation in Grand Cayman, 320 acres in Cayman Brac and 475 acres in Little Cayman. Officials said early rainfall and higher than normal tide levels have caused elevated numbers of mosquito biting across the islands.

Depending on the weather, operations will last for ten days and involve low-level flights during the mornings and late afternoon. The operation began Tuesday in Cayman Brac and Little Cayman and continue until completion on Grand Cayman.

“The distinctive red and white MRCU aircraft will be applying the small pellets specifically designed to target mosquito larvae developing in aquatic habitats; this means preventing the occurrence of biting mosquitoes,” officials said in a release announcing the first island-wide treatment this year on Grand Cayman and the Sister Islands.

Once the rains begin, the pellets are activated and will provide control for up to two months. Low-level flights over specific areas are necessary to ensure that correct application and successful control of mosquitoes is achieved. The spraying will assist in providing control through the initial part of the wet season, officials said.

More information and daily schedules can be found on the Mosquito Research & Control Unit’s Facebook page. Members of the public should feel free to call MRCU with any enquiries on 949-2557.