Mosquito control involves different methods aimed at destroying mosquitoes, such as the Aedes aegypti, which are carriers of diseases such as Zika, chikungunya, dengue and yellow fever.

To accomplish this, an Integrated Vector Management (IVM) approach is used to control these mosquito vectors. IVM is the utilisation of all available resources in an optimal way to achieve the objective of reducing the mosquito population. The approach seeks to improve the efficacy, cost-effectiveness, ecological soundness and sustainability of disease-vector control. The ultimate goal is to prevent the transmission of these vector-borne diseases.

Mosquitoes thrive in breeding sites which can be formed and found in any container such as uncovered drums or areas that water can gather, like flowerpots or even awnings. In getting rid of larvae produced in these breeding sites, larvicides, which are chemicals designed to be applied directly to water, may be used as one method of mosquito control. Another method of mosquito control is the application of chemicals, (insecticides) in open spaces (fogging). The Malaysia Gazette stated in January 2014 that fogging is a targeted and limited activity and the chemicals used are biodegradable by sunlight and cannot accumulate over time to cause toxicity. Fogging is part of the integration of non-chemical and chemical vector-control methods. This method is used to knock down adult mosquitoes and is particularly critical during an outbreak to quickly get rid of the infected adult female that is able to transmit the diseases. Fogging is, therefore, the first line of defence during an outbreak.

Malathion is the main chemical used by the Ministry of Health in Jamaica for fogging. This chemical is certified by the World Health Organization and is used in accordance with the manufacturer’s specification. Malathion is an organophosphate insecticide — this means that it is an organic or natural compound which contains phosphate. Malathion has been registered for use in the United States since 1956. It is used in agriculture, residential gardens, public recreation areas, and in public health pest control programmes. When applied in accordance with the rate of application and safety precautions specified on the label, Malathion can be used to kill mosquitoes without posing unreasonable risks to human health or the environment. Malathion used in mosquito-control programmes does not negatively impact wildlife or the environment as it degrades rapidly in the environment, especially in moist soil. For mosquito control, Malathion is applied at a maximum rate of 0.23 pounds (less than 4 ounces) of active ingredient per acre per day, which minimises exposure and risks to people and the environment.

The staff involved in the process of fogging is trained in the mixing and application of chemicals as well as in personal protection. Fogging can be irritating to persons with respiratory illnesses, like asthma, so it is advised that you avoid being close to the fumigation process on these occasions. 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 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.

Whilst fogging only destroys approximately 30 per cent of adult mosquitoes, including the Aedes aegypti species that can spread the Zika, Chikungunya and dengue viruses, the challenge is that the young mosquitoes or the larvae are protected from the insecticide-laden fog. The larvae then only emerge in a few days into adult mosquitoes and replace those mosquitoes that died. The more effective and sustainable method of controlling mosquito vectors, especially the Aedes aegypti mosquito, is getting rid of mosquito breeding sites in and around homes, schools, churches and workplaces. This is usually achieved through individual action and community participation. With the continued threat of mosquito-borne diseases, getting rid of mosquito breeding sites is a priority.

For more information on the Zika virus, mosquito breeding sites and other related matters, visit the Ministry of Health’s website at

www.moh.gov.jm