Experts Explain Surge in Mosquitoes Across Nairobi

Nairobi residents are grappling with an unexpected surge in mosquitoes. 

The rise in mosquito populations has led to speculation, with some claiming that genetically modified mosquitoes have been deliberately released. Medical experts, however, attribute the issue to environmental factors, dismissing these theories.

The current outbreak coincides with warmer weather, which provides ideal conditions for mosquito breeding. The Kenya Meteorological Department has reported temperatures in the mid-to-high 20s Celsius, encouraging rapid reproduction cycles. 

This has been exacerbated by urbanisation, with construction sites and poor drainage creating stagnant water pools, which serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes. The primary species responsible for the surge is the Culex mosquito, known for its loud buzzing and itchy bites. 

While not a carrier of malaria, the Culex mosquito thrives in warm, stagnant environments and can reproduce at an accelerated rate. This has led to an alarming increase in the mosquito population across the city.

Poor urban planning, particularly the inadequate drainage systems in fast-developing areas like Kilimani, has unintentionally created ideal habitats for mosquito larvae.