The Sterile Insect Technique (SIT), a pioneering biological system, has been relaunched in Castellón during the months of highest activity for the tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus). This action, undertaken for the second consecutive year, is the result of collaboration between the City Council, through the Public Health department, and the Regional Ministry of Agriculture, Water, Livestock, and Fisheries. The positive results from the previous campaign have driven the continuation of this initiative, which complements the permanent municipal mosquito control efforts.
The method involves mass rearing of insects of the same species to be controlled. Once sterilized, the insects are released into the open air, thereby significantly reducing the tiger mosquito population. Releases have taken place in parks such as Ribalta, Sensal, La Panderola, Rafalafena, and Geòleg José Royo, green areas considered ideal for applying this biological method. Over 2,000 sterile males per hectare have been released weekly in each of these areas. It is important to remember that male mosquitoes do not bite, thus avoiding nuisance to citizens, and their fertilization with wild females prevents the development of eggs.
The Councilor for Public Health, Luciano Ferrer, highlighted the effectiveness and environmental friendliness of SIT, describing it as an "effective tool" that complements other municipal actions. Ferrer emphasized the commitment to prevention and innovative solutions to anticipate the problem and improve citizens' quality of life during the summer.
The effectiveness of the Sterile Insect Technique in the Valencian Community is confirmed by comparative studies. In municipalities like Polinyà de Xúquer (where sterile males are released) and Riola (as a control municipality), average reductions in egg-laying of around 65% were recorded in 2025, exceeding 75% during certain periods. This means that the emergence of two out of every three biting females was prevented.
The application of SIT is in addition to the preventive and control treatments that the City Council of Castellón carries out throughout the year in drains, ditches, and green areas. The City Council also reminds citizens of the importance of their collaboration in preventing the proliferation of the tiger mosquito by eliminating any water accumulation in domestic containers.
