Flies Invade Cairo and Giza: What is the Reason and How to Deal with It?

Noticeable Increase in Fly Numbers in Cairo and Giza

Wide areas of Cairo and Giza have recently witnessed a significant increase in the number of flies in residential areas, raising questions among citizens about the reasons for this sudden phenomenon and its recurrence during certain times of the year.

Ministry of Agriculture Explains the Reason for Fly Infestation in Egypt

Dr. Mohamed Ali Fahim, head of the Climate Change Information Center at the Ministry of Agriculture, explained that the increase in fly numbers is a natural phenomenon associated with transitional periods between seasons, especially at the end of summer and the beginning of autumn, as well as during April and May.

Weather Changes and Temperature Behind Fly Breeding

Fahim confirmed that moderate temperatures, especially during nighttime when they exceed 15 and 16 degrees Celsius, create an ideal environment for rapid fly reproduction and spread.

Accelerated Fly Life Cycle Due to Climate Fluctuations

He noted that the recent drop in temperatures contributed to slowing down the breeding process, before the last few days witnessed a significant acceleration in the fly life cycle due to improved weather conditions.

Two Generations of Flies Appearing Simultaneously

He also added that this acceleration can sometimes lead to the emergence of two generations of flies instead of one at the same time, due to weather changes, explaining that extreme heat in summer or severe cold in winter usually leads to a decrease in the number of these insects.

Is the Fly Infestation This Year Unusual?

The head of the Climate Change Information Center confirmed that what is currently happening is not considered an unusual phenomenon, but it is slightly higher than the usual rates this year due to recent weather changes.

Why Do Citizens Feel the Increase in Flies More Than Usual?

Fahim clarified that the lack of fly appearances during winter, followed by a noticeable appearance during the transitional period between spring and summer, leads some to believe that the numbers are higher than every year, which is an inaccurate impression.

Reasons for Fly Infestation Inside Homes

The presence of flies inside homes is linked to several daily factors, the most prominent of which are:

• Neglecting cleanliness
• Leaving food scraps uncovered
• Not disposing of garbage regularly
• Having openings or cracks in windows and doors

These factors provide a suitable environment for flies to breed and easily enter homes.

Effective Ways to Reduce Fly Infestation in Homes

Experts recommend following a set of measures to limit fly infestation, the most important of which are:

• Daily disposal of garbage
• Regularly cleaning trash bins
• Properly covering food
• Cleaning surfaces immediately after cooking
• Installing mesh screens on windows and doors
• Using natural methods like lemon with cloves
• Planting mint and basil to repel flies
• Using diluted vinegar in areas where they are present

Summary of Fly Infestation in Egypt

The current fly infestation in Egypt is due to natural factors related to climate changes and moderate temperatures, and not due to an exceptional phenomenon. It can be limited by adhering to cleanliness and preventive measures inside homes.