Authorities in Greece are stepping up mosquito-control efforts across the Attica region, using both aerial and ground spraying as part of a broader program aimed at protecting public health and the environment.
The program covers all 66 municipalities in the Attica basin and is designed to prevent and address risks associated with rising mosquito populations.
The intensified measures come as Greece records a significant share of West Nile virus cases in Europe. According to the information provided, one in four West Nile virus cases in Europe is recorded in Greece, which now ranks second after Italy. Attica has recorded the highest number of cases in Greece, while the National Public Health Organization has described virus circulation in the region as particularly intense.
Mosquito monitoring began in 2025
Attica authorities began preparations for the current mosquito-control program on March 1, 2025, placing particular emphasis on early prevention.
The work has included extensive sampling of mosquito larvae and mapping of breeding sites in suburban, agricultural and natural environments. Authorities have also surveyed bodies of water and flooded areas near populated communities.
The program is coordinated by the Directorates of Health Control and Environmental Hygiene of Attica’s regional units. Local mosquito-control technical committees oversee the implementation, evaluation and monitoring of the interventions.
Attica Regional Governor Nikos Hardalias said protecting public health and citizens, particularly against disease and environmental risks, remains a top priority for the regional government.
He said the integrated mosquito-control program is being implemented across all municipalities using scientific knowledge, modern ground and aerial equipment, and the expertise of regional services.
“The implementation of the program is carried out with absolute respect for the environment and people and is a continuous, daily battle to protect public health,” Hardalias said, adding that authorities would continue efforts to ensure effective coverage across Attica.
Where spraying is underway
In East Attica, the fifth round of ground larvicide treatments is underway, using spraying vehicles at sites around municipalities as well as in ecologically sensitive and protected areas. A total of 24 rounds are planned for the year.
Four helicopter applications have already been carried out in the wetland of Schinias National Park in the Municipality of Marathon, out of eight planned aerial applications for 2025.
In West Attica, the third of 24 planned ground-treatment rounds is underway around populated areas and in ecologically sensitive zones. Three drone applications have also been carried out in the natural areas of Psatha, Vourkari and Lake Koumoundourou, out of 12 planned aerial applications for the year.
In Central Athens, the second ground-treatment cycle is being carried out at mapped sites on the outskirts of municipalities, out of 24 planned cycles.
The North Athens regional unit is conducting its third ground-treatment cycle, using spraying vehicles at selected sites in municipalities, out of 24 planned rounds.
In West Athens, the third of 24 ground-treatment cycles is underway, with spraying vehicles operating in suburban areas.
In South Athens, the second ground-treatment cycle is being carried out at high-risk locations.
In Piraeus, the third cycle is underway, with interventions in suburban areas and storm drains to prevent mosquitoes from breeding in the urban environment.
In the Islands regional unit, the third ground-treatment cycle is underway, covering municipalities and protected ecological areas.
Targeted nighttime spraying has also been carried out along the coastal zone of Loutroupoli Methana and the town of Galatas, as well as their outskirts. Ground larvicide treatments have also been conducted at mapped water sites in natural, agricultural and semi-urban areas, including dams, irrigation reservoirs, streams, river outlets, canals, drainage ditches, wetlands, lagoons and wells.
Additional treatments have been carried out at selected urban sites in the Municipality of Troizinia-Methana, including storm drains, flooded areas and buildings.
Three aerial applications have been conducted using a spraying helicopter at natural sites including Lake Psifta, Vidi, Agia Sotira and the Stella Maris area, with the latest application taking place on the Tuesday before Easter.
The aerial treatments used an approved biological formulation designed to selectively target mosquito larvae without affecting other organisms.
The Attica regional government said it remains on constant alert, strengthening its presence in the field every day, with the protection of people and the environment at the center of its efforts.
