The mosquito population in Aruba is concerning.
ORANJESTAD - The Yellow Fever and Mosquito Control Section (GKMB) of the Department of Public Health is warning the community that many homes currently have mosquito breeding sites.
This has led to a very high mosquito population, causing inconvenience and posing a danger to our community. Inspections in different neighborhoods across Aruba indicate this problem exists in the island districts.
The Department of Public Health (DVG) urges the community to take action by inspecting their homes and surroundings. You must empty objects that retain water after each rainfall. If water is stored for any purpose, it must be covered, and precautions should be taken to prevent it from becoming a mosquito breeding ground.
The significant increase in the mosquito population on our island means a higher risk of outbreaks of mosquito-borne diseases such as Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya. Reducing the mosquito population requires action from every citizen. The GKMB section cannot control every house in Aruba, and due to daily rainfall, regular inspections around homes are necessary to remove standing water.
For several years, the GKMB section has used a management strategy that prioritizes the care and protection of our flora and fauna. As a result, they no longer spray entire neighborhoods with pesticides, except in areas where there are confirmed cases of mosquito-borne diseases. The previous method of mass spraying with pesticides was ineffective, as mosquitoes will continue to breed as long as there is standing water around homes.
For more information:
- Like our Facebook page: Directie Volksgezondheid DVG Aruba
- Follow us on Instagram: directie_volksgezondheid_aruba
- Visit our website: www.dvg.aw
- Call us at: 5224200
- Email us at: servicio@dvg.aw
