Karlstad Municipality has for several years investigated the occurrence of flood mosquitoes and methods to reduce problems when large numbers hatch after floods, according to the municipality. If required permits are obtained, the biological control will be carried out from a helicopter and target mosquito larvae in water before they develop into flying mosquitoes, the municipality said. This method uses a biological control agent employed in several places in Sweden where flood mosquitoes cause issues for humans, as reported by Karlstad Municipality. The control agent has very little impact on humans and other animals, the municipality confirmed. The specific permits needed and the authorities involved have not been detailed publicly.
Karlstad Municipality is planning an information meeting for residents and others who want to know more about the initiative, a spokesperson stated. The meeting is scheduled for April 15 at 6 PM at Skåre Church, with coffee, tea, and buns provided, and pre-registration required, according to the municipality. Registration can be done via a form on the municipality's webpage where more information is also available, officials noted. At the meeting, the municipality together with Biologisk myggkontroll will explain how biological mosquito control works, when it might become relevant, and which areas could be affected, the municipality said. Because control may need to be carried out with short notice from low-flying helicopters, the municipality also offers an SMS service for animal owners whose animals might be frightened, a representative added.
Residents of Skåre have for many years experienced problems with mosquitoes, according to Nya Wermlands-Tidningen. The specific areas in Skåre or Karlstad most affected by flood mosquitoes have not been identified, and the number of residents who have registered complaints or issues related to mosquitoes in recent years is unknown. The estimated cost and funding source for the helicopter-based control operation have not been disclosed by authorities. The municipality's investigation into flood mosquitoes has included assessing various reduction methods, though the full scope of this research remains unclear. Similarly, the exact locations in Sweden where the biological control agent has been previously used have not been specified in the available information.