In response to rising concerns about a potential dengue fever outbreak, the Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs has ramped up its efforts to safeguard public health through targeted mosquito control interventions.
Glenda Cepal-Etienne, Environmental Health Officer in the Vector Control Unit, emphasized that these proactive measures are essential to reducing the spread of mosquito-borne diseases and highlighted the role of public participation in these efforts.
“Since the launch of our comprehensive vector awareness campaign in July 2024, we have implemented a multi-faceted approach aimed at minimizing the risks associated with mosquito-borne diseases. Our house-to-house inspections continue to identify and eliminate mosquito breeding grounds in communities around the island. Additionally, abandoned or open water sources are being treated, and ongoing education campaigns target groups with vital information on how to control vectors within homes,” stated Cepal-Etienne.
The Ministry’s initiative focuses on multiple key areas of intervention, including:
- House-to-House Inspections Aimed at eliminating mosquito breeding grounds.
- Identification and Treatment of Water Sources: To reduce potential breeding sites.
- Vector Education: Engaging communities to raise awareness of mosquito breeding habits.
- Fogging Operations: Targeting schools and communities to reduce mosquito populations before and after school reopening.
- Community Cleanup Initiatives: Removing items that hold stagnant water and can harbor mosquitoes and rats.
Etienne further explained the importance of public involvement in this ongoing battle against dengue fever, urging all residents to take immediate steps in and around their homes.
“While fogging helps reduce the adult mosquito population, it does not address the larvae, which can develop into new generations of mosquitoes within days. We urge everyone to take personal responsibility by eliminating standing water and scrubbing containers to dislodge mosquito eggs.”
To create safer environments for students and staff, the Ministry has already conducted assessments and fogging operations at schools ahead of their reopening.
“We are preparing schools to ensure a mosquito-safe environment as children return for the new academic year. After-school interventions which include community-wide fogging will focus on areas with high mosquito indices to prevent the further spread of the disease,” added Environmental Officer in the Vector Control Unit, Glenda Cepal-Etienne.
The Ministry encourages all citizens to be proactive in safeguarding their homes and communities. Let’s unite in the fight against dengue fever by following mosquito control practices and staying informed about prevention efforts.