by InTrieste
In response to a confirmed case of dengue fever, the Municipality of Trieste has announced comprehensive disinfestation measures, necessitating a temporary ban on vehicle traffic in several key areas of the city starting this evening, 5 June.
The aggressive disinfestation campaign, which begins at 7:00 PM, aims to eliminate mosquito larvae and adult mosquitoes in the affected area, as detailed in an official map released by the city. The intervention will be conducted by a specialized pest control company, with larvicide treatments commencing at 7:00 PM and adulticide treatments scheduled to begin around 9:30 PM.
Mayor Roberto Dipiazza has issued an ordinance to ensure the effectiveness of these measures, emphasizing the need for radical action to prevent further spread of the disease. “Public health is our utmost priority,” the mayor said. “These preventive steps are essential to protect our community.”
From 9:00 PM until midnight, and potentially longer if necessary, the ordinance restricts vehicle traffic on several streets, including Via dell’Istria, Via Fonte Oppia, Via Costalunga, and others within the designated area. Residents and business owners are advised to adhere strictly to the guidelines and avoid the affected zones to facilitate the disinfestation process.
The directive also imposes specific responsibilities on residents and property managers to prevent mosquito breeding grounds. This includes the removal or secure covering of any containers that could collect rainwater, regular maintenance of open areas to prevent water stagnation, and treating standing water in private properties with larvicides.
Additionally, during the treatment hours, residents are instructed to remain indoors with windows and doors securely closed and to turn off air exchange systems. Pets should be kept indoors, and their outdoor accessories covered with plastic sheets. Gardeners are advised to harvest vegetables and fruits before the treatment or protect them with plastic coverings.
After the disinfestation, it is recommended to clean any outdoor furniture, children’s toys, and other exposed items using gloves. In the event of accidental contact with the insecticide, affected areas should be washed thoroughly with soap and water.
Emergency vehicles, law enforcement, and vehicles involved in the disinfestation will be exempt from the traffic ban.
The municipality has called for continued vigilance in the coming weeks to prevent the reformation of mosquito breeding sites, underscoring the community’s role in maintaining a mosquito-free environment.
Trieste’s proactive measures reflect growing global concerns about mosquito-borne diseases, highlighting the urgent need for effective public health strategies in urban environments.