RESIDENTS of Umgeni Park said they have noticed a massive increase in the number of mosquitoes in their homes over the last two months.

Some residents have described the influx of the blood-sucking insects as an ‘infestation’ in the area.

Robin Johnston, who contacted the Northglen News, said she has tried every mosquito repellent available, however, it has not been enough as the insects continue to come in waves.

Also Read: Residents demand answers to sewage woes in Umgeni River

“This might seem silly, but in a single evening, my son killed 18 of them. We use two zappers, a mosquito repellent and even a candle repellent, but they don’t seem to make a dent. I’ve even mentioned it on our WhatsApp group, and several people have spoken about similar experiences.

“Most residents who live closer to the Umgeni River’s edge seem to be experiencing this infestation. In the past, I’ve seen mosquitoes, but I’m bewildered at the increasing number of them and the discomfort from being bitten by them in the last few weeks. I’m not sure what is contributing to their large numbers, but these summer nights are becoming increasingly unbearable,” Johnston said.

Fellow resident Annette Bredenkamp said she feels that stagnant sewage water pockets along the banks of the Umgeni River could be a contributing factor.

“I’ve been living in the area for longer than two decades, and the mosquito problem has never been this bad. We have had a similar instance once before, and we traced it to a particular source, however, this time the problem is much more widespread. There is no doubt this infestation is coming from somewhere; we suspect it could be the river and wastewater. That is the perfect breeding ground for them. I have all my windows closed, and when I go out into my garden in the mornings, I just see hundreds of them flying around. With summer upon us, this situation is going to be unbearable,” Bredenkamp said.