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| Sunday, 11 December 2005 |
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| News Business Features Editorial
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Midges - a nuisance in Gampaha Midges, small dipteran insects commonly known as 'hohaputuwa' or 'kurutta' in Sinhala, have become a nuisance, particularly in Gampaha district at present. These small black flies in appearance like mosquitoes, do not bite men. There had been enquiries regarding this insect menace from many parties according to Dr. W. Abeywickreme, Senior Lecturer attached to the Faculty of Medicine, Ragama of the University of Kelaniya. Midges are of two types. The blood sucking midges (family; Ceratopogonidae) are very small (1-4 mm in length) blood sucking dipteran flies. These blood sucking flies (Genus:Culicoides) lay their eggs in damp places, at the margin of ponds, in swamps, and in a variety of other habitats including small collections of water. Adults are found in large numbers, usually near breeding places. The females attack man aggressively particularly through the night. However, there are no reports of disease transmission by these insects in Sri Lanka. They breed in lakes, rivers and sewage works. Though non-biting they can cause allergy when contacted with the skin or through inhalation. These insects are attracted to light. They are very sensitive creatures which are susceptible to almost all insecticides used at present. Residents of Gampaha district should not panic in view of this insect menace they are facing these days due to changes in the weather conditions followed by heavy rains in the area, says Dr. Abeywickreme. However, as WHO has warned, in a recent communique, authorities as well as people are requested to be alert on the possibility of outbreaks of diseases such as dysentery and dengue with the changes in the weather conditions, confirms Dr. Abeywickreme. |
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