- The environmental association Anecpla warns of possible cockroach infestations
- Experts say higher temperatures and genetic mutations are to blame
Britons traveling to Spain this summer could face cockroach infestations due to climate change and genetic mutations.
The alert has been launched by the Spanish environmental association Anecpla, which states that the frightening insects will come out en masse and will show a very notable increase due to rising temperatures.
They warn all bars, restaurants, hotels and any other businesses in the hospitality sector to take urgent action if they detect early signs of cockroach infestations.
Warning that a ‘summer of significant cockroach infestations’ is approaching, the general director of Anecpla, Jorge Galván, stated: ‘On the one hand, the increase in temperatures as a consequence of climate change is causing insects such as bedbugs or cockroaches to , in this case, exponentially accelerate their growth. life cycle.’
“On the other hand, there is evidence that cockroaches have been suffering in recent years from a series of random genetic mutations that are making them resistant to the biocide products that, until now, were used for their control,” he added.
Tourists in Spain could face cockroach infestations, experts warn.
The Spanish environmental association Anecpla has said that higher temperatures and genetic mutations are the reason for possible cockroach infestations.
Anecpla has recommended maintaining cleanliness, avoiding water leaks, sealing cracks and holes and using garbage containers with tight lids to prevent the invasion of cockroaches.
According to a Spanish media. The reasonSo far this year, the country’s authorities have reported a significant increase in the cockroach infestation: 33% more than in 2023.
Anecpla stated that it is scientifically proven that, from 28 degrees Celsius, cockroaches, like many other insects, multiply their reproduction speed.
“The heat comes in mid-spring and doesn’t end until well into fall, so cockroach populations have only increased,” Galván said.
Adding to the problem are the increasingly stronger restrictions coming from Europe regarding legislation linked to the use of biocides, he explained.
“Of course, environmental health professionals evaluate the cost-benefit that exists depending on the situation and we give preference whenever possible to physical and biological measures over chemical ones,” said the head of Anecpla.
‘But when there is no other possible solution for the adequate control of a pest such as, in this case, cockroaches, its use is essential.’
To avoid an infestation, Anecpla recommended maintaining cleanliness, avoiding water leaks, sealing cracks and holes and using garbage containers with tight lids.
‘One of the biggest risks posed by cockroaches is the spread of harmful bacteria and viruses capable of transmitting major diseases to people. A particularly important problem within the food industry, given that these insects act as reservoirs of bacteria and viruses that they spread due to their unhealthy habits and the place where they live,’ Galván warned.
