Get rid of mosquito breeding sites

As the country experiences increased rainfall, the Ministry of Health has appealed to the public to take the necessary precautions to reduce and/or eliminate mosquito-breeding sites. Chief Medical Officer Dr Winston De La Haye advised that, "when it rains, all uncovered containers become potential mosquito-breeding sites which increase the mosquito population and the risk for the spread of diseases such as Zika, chikungunya and dengue".

De La Haye further stated that "these breeding sites are found around homes, schools, churches, workplaces and anywhere else people gather for extended periods of time. It, therefore, underscores the importance of personal responsibility in reducing the mosquito population".

According to the Ministry of Health, individuals should get rid of mosquito-breeding sites by looking for anything in which water can settle and either cover it, keep the area dry, clean it regularly, fill it with soil or sand, punch holes into it and recycle or properly dispose of it.

LEADING BREEDING SITE

The 45-gallon drums have been identified as the leading breeding site for the Aedes aegypti mosquitoes in and around our homes. The appropriate cover for these drums, the ministry said, includes a mesh cover with elastic bands around the perimeter to hold it securely to the containers. The holes in the mesh used should be small enough so that mosquitoes cannot enter.

Individuals who wish to obtain more information may call the Ministry of Health or the nearest health centre. Persons may also visit the ministry's website at www.moh.gov.jm and like and follow the ministry on www.facebook.com/themohgovjm;https://twitter.com/themohgovjm; https://instagram.com/themohgovjm.