As we continue to minimise the threat of mosquito-borne diseases such as the Zika, Chikungunya and Dengue viruses, it is evident that we all play a major role in the fight. As you may be aware these illnesses are spread through the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito. Jamaica’s tropical climate does not allow for the total eradication of the Aedes population but luckily there are ways to minimise your exposure to these mosquitoes.

Vector control activities are crucial in reducing the high Aedes population within the island. The theme of the Ministry of Health’s ‘Operation: Mosquito Search and Destroy’ Initiative has been to mobilise and motivate each individual to actively search for and destroy mosquito-breeding sites in and around homes, schools, churches and workplaces. It may seem daunting but all it takes is one day per week for at least 15 minutes to look around your environment for potential mosquito-breeding sites. The regular or most obvious culprits are uncovered drums, water stored in flower pots and drains but anywhere water has gathered is a potential mosquito-breeding site.

Remember, the Aedes aegypti mosquito only needs a small drop of water to flourish. Additional activities to reduce mosquito breeding can include repairing leaking pipes and outdoor faucets, cutting grass short and trimming shrubbery, clearing roof gutters and eaves to prevent water from settling and filling in and draining any low places in the yard such as areas where there are usually puddles when it rains.

Other steps that you can take to reduce the risk of infection are those that involve avoiding being bitten by an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito. You can wear long-sleeved clothing where possible, sleep under mosquito nets, put mesh on windows and doors and use mosquito repellants. It is important to remember to use only approved mosquito repellants that contain DEET. There are also approved mosquito coils and vapour release products.

If you would also like to use aerosols as a vector control method use the approved ones. You can visit the Pesticides Control Authority’s website at www.caribpesticides.com for the full listing of approved mosquito repellant products.

You have the power to reduce mosquito breeding in your homes, schools, churches and workplaces with routine checks and vigilance. Remember it is up to all of us to minimise the threat of mosquito-borne diseases. Help us to ‘Search and Destroy’ mosquito-breeding sites!