Vector ecology - IM
In close collaboration with the municipalities of Ticino and the Canton, this sector coordinates surveillance and control activities against the tiger mosquito and other urban mosquito species. In natural environments, it conducts regular censuses and some control activities. Additionally, at the national level, it manages the Swiss Mosquito Network on behalf of the Federal Office for the Environment, in collaboration with the Swiss Tropical and Public-Health Institute, for monitoring and controlling invasive mosquitoes, supporting other cantons. At the same time, it develops research activities to improve disease vector management strategies. This sector plays a crucial role in public and animal health protection, working closely with the Biosafety sector, which investigates pathogens, bacteria, and viruses transmitted by vectors such as mosquitoes and sandflies.
Integrated management and control measures
There are no one-size-fits-all solutions for vector control; instead, an integrated set of synergistic actions is necessary to achieve effective control that is both human- and environmental-friendly.
Native mosquitoes
Regular surveys of native mosquitoes in the area to assess biodiversity, human nuisance, potential disease transmission risks, and appropriate control measures.
Invasive mosquitoes
Surveillance and control activities have been ongoing since 2000 to limit the presence of invasive mosquitoes and prevent the local transmission of exotic diseases.
The tiger mosquito
Originally from Southeast Asia, the tiger mosquito has now colonized much of the world and is considered one of the most feared invasive species. In addition to being highly annoying due to its repeated bites, it is a generalist vector of mosquito-borne viruses that can cause serious diseases in humans. However, effective measures can be adopted to reduce its presence and, consequently, the associated risks.
(Photo © R. Eritja)
First row: Diego Parrondo, Nikoleta Anicic, Eleonora Flacio, Francesco Pace and Klaudia Erndle. Second row: Giovanni Luca Licheri, Valentina Campana, Silvia Antognoli and Mariantonietta Lettieri. Third row: Pietro Storelli and Damiana Ravasi.