Midges invade homes in Kotka, alarming residents as autumn begins

As autumn arrives in the Kymenlaakso region of Kotka, residents are facing a growing issue with insects. In particular, the Mussalo residential area has reported swarms of tiny insects invading homes and gathering on parked cars’ windshields. Despite cleaning efforts and taking out the trash, residents have struggled to eliminate the pests.

Kotka’s health inspector, Emma Muurinen, conducted an analysis on samples from two different households on Friday. The samples contained thousands of insects observed by local residents. Initially, Muurinen speculated that the insects might be autumnal flies, commonly seen in homes during this season. However, the investigation revealed that they were actually midge larvae, which are natural insects that, for unknown reasons, are now entering homes.

Entomologist Marko Mutanen from the University of Oulu expressed surprise at the significant presence of midges indoors, stating he had never encountered such large numbers of them inside residences before. Typically, midges are present in very small quantities at home. They can enter living spaces through houseplants, as their eggs survive in the soil of these plants.

Muurinen believes the midges will likely disappear from homes over time, especially if the indoor air remains dry, which will eliminate their breeding conditions. She recommends vacuuming as an effective method for both flies and midges, while cautioning against the use of insecticides indoors. Mutanen supports her viewpoint, stressing that while flies can pose health risks, midges usually provide benefits by aiding in the decomposition process of plants.