Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh has expressed concerns about the hostility and lack of cooperation faced by public health inspectors from some homeowners during inspections for potential mosquito breeding sites, specifically the Aedes aegypti mosquito which carries the dengue virus.
Efforts are now being made by the ministry in collaboration with the Office of the Attorney General and Legal Affairs to establish a legal platform to address situations where homeowners are neglecting to clear their properties of mosquito breeding sites.
At a recent news conference at the San Fernando Teaching Hospital, Deyalsingh revealed that public health inspectors have issued 166 notices to homeowners with potential breeding sites for mosquitoes. Fines of up to $3,500 will be imposed on those who fail to comply.
While most homeowners have responded positively to the inspectors and rectified the issue, there are some who continue to be uncooperative. Deyalsingh emphasized the importance of cooperation to protect the community, especially vulnerable groups who are at higher risk of contracting dengue.
The Health Minister highlighted the need to empower inspectors under the law and is exploring further legal measures if cooperation does not improve. Currently, there have been 509 laboratory-confirmed dengue cases with five reported deaths.
In response to criticism regarding the efficiency of the Insect Vector Control Division (IVCD), Deyalsingh defended its function and clarified that its role extends beyond spraying to include house-to-house inspections and targeted interventions.
Dr. Osafa Fraser, the ministry’s specialist medical officer, emphasized the collaborative efforts between the ministry and local government in combating dengue. He explained the various methods employed by the IVCD, emphasizing the importance of eliminating stagnant water sources where mosquitoes breed.
During a demonstration, test tubes containing live Aedes aegypti mosquitoes in clean water and larvae in dirty water were presented to illustrate the need for proper prevention measures. Deyalsingh corrected misconceptions about mosquito breeding sites, stressing that dengue transmission is primarily linked to clean and stagnant water in household containers.
As efforts continue to combat the dengue outbreak, Deyalsingh urged the public to take responsibility and work together to eliminate breeding sites and protect the community from the disease.
