Fogging has long since been a method of vector control or in simpler terms, a way to get rid of those pesky adult mosquitoes. As you may be aware, Jamaica, along with several countries, is currently dealing with Zika, an emerging mosquito-borne disease. There is also a high alert for dengue, a virus transmitted by the same Aedes aegypti mosquito that carries Zika. This threat must be mitigated.

As we gear up for the rainy months and the potential of more Aedes aegypti mosquitoes breeding, there will be a greater need for more vector control activities. Fogging, although not the primary method of vector control, will be a part of the ministry’s strategies.

What is the real aim of fogging? Mosquito fogging operations are used to kill 30 per cent of adult mosquitoes, including the Aedes aegypti species that may be carrying the Zika, chikungunya and dengue viruses. The insecticide used in mosquito-fogging operations is a synthetic pyrethroid that is very similar to the insecticides used in most domestic insect spray that are found on supermarket shelves. The ‘fog’ is created by blasting the mixture of insecticide and water into very fine droplets through the fogging machine.

The amount of insecticide in the fog is very small and is dispersed at quantities that can only kill something as small as a mosquito, so at the concentrations used there should be no adverse health effects on people who are occasionally exposed to the fog. It is advised that you open windows and doors to allow the mist in to kill adult mosquitoes that are already in your homes.

Fogging can, however, be irritating to persons with respiratory illnesses, like asthma, so avoid being close to the fumigation process. Also, if you know the times for the fogging operation in your area try not to be present to avoid any potential irritation. If you are present during the fogging you can cover your mouth with a wet rag to minimise the irritation. Ensure if you are having any respiratory symptoms that you take your prescribed medication and consult your physician.

As effective as fogging is on adult mosquitoes, the truth is it does not kill the larvae. This is a critical point as it means other vector control methods have to be employed to get rid of mosquito larvae. This is the core mobilisation message of ‘Operation: Mosquito Search and Destroy’. Everyone has the responsibility to destroy mosquito breeding sites and not allow larvae to survive to adulthood. This can be done through weekly searches around your homes, schools and workplaces for any potential mosquito breeding sites. These sites may be as obvious as water in an uncovered drum or as inconspicuous as water gathered in your dish drainer.

Remember it is the female adult Aedes aegypti mosquitoes that become infected with these viruses after biting and taking blood from someone who is sick and then transmits them to someone else. Also if there are no Aedes aegypti mosquitoes you can’t get sick with these viruses.