Passing weather systems will bring rain and this creates the potential for mosquito breeding.
Section General Public Health (SGPH) is appealing to residents to be vigilant and eradicate mosquito breeding places. Residents are also asked to maintain a high level of prevention during the coming weeks where an increase in rainfall activity is expected.
Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius De Weever said on Sunday: "I am asking everyone to do their share to help in this prevention action. Please do your part."
Measures need to be taken in and around homes and businesses to reduce breeding of the Ades Aegypti mosquito which has the potential to transmit dengue and chikungunya fever.
Dengue is a mosquito-borne infection that causes a severe flu-like illness that affects infants, young children and adults. Chikungunya (CHIK) fever is an emerging, mosquito-borne disease caused by an alphavirus, Chikungunya virus (CHIKV).
Clear stagnant water in old tires and other types of debris in yards can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes bringing about an increased risk of mosquito-borne diseases.
SGPH is therefore advising residents to take immediate measures after rain events to make sure there is no clear/clean stagnant water in their yards; disposing of responsibly old tires, empty drums, plant containers, paint cans and other items that can collect water around their homes and businesses.
An increase in the mosquito population puts residents at risk. In the case of where containers are used for storing water, residents should keep these covered. Inlets and outlets of cisterns must be covered with a mosquito net or cloth to prevent mosquito breeding.
To protect yourself from mosquito bites, stay indoors at dawn and dusks; cover up by wearing long pants and sleeves; use insect repellant; screen in outdoor deck and porch areas; and screen in exterior doors and windows.