The Environmental Health Division has recognized two outstanding students for their winning entries in the 2026 Caribbean Mosquito Awareness Week Art and Poetry Competition.

As part of the Division's observance of Caribbean Mosquito Awareness Week, held from May 11 to 15, students from public and private schools across the Virgin Islands were invited to participate in an Art and Poetry Competition designed to showcase their talents while raising awareness about mosquito control and the importance of protecting public health.

Tiffany Faulkner won the Art Competition with a vibrant and educational illustration depicting the life cycle of the Aedes aegypti mosquito and practical measures residents can take to prevent mosquito breeding. Her artwork highlighted key prevention practices including covering water storage containers, cleaning gutters, eliminating standing water, and wearing protective clothing to reduce mosquito bites.

Axel Varlack captured first place in the Poetry Competition with an engaging poem that emphasized the dangers of mosquito-borne diseases such as Dengue, Fever Zika, and Chikungunya. Through his creative writing, Axel encouraged residents to work together to eliminate mosquito breeding sites and protect public health.

Acting Deputy Chief Environmental Health Officer, Mrs. Shamelle Thomas congratulated the winners for their exceptional submissions and emphasized the importance of engaging young people in environmental health initiatives.

“Competitions such as these provide an opportunity for our youths to showcase their talents while learning about the critical role they play in protecting public health. We hope to continue encouraging students to become ambassadors for environmental health within their homes, schools, and communities,” Mrs. Thomas said.

The Environmental Health continues to encourage residents to remain vigilant in the fight against mosquitoes by conducting regular inspections of their properties, eliminating standing water, properly covering water storage containers, and maintaining clean surroundings to reduce mosquito breeding.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development congratulates both winners on their outstanding achievements and extends its appreciation to all participating students, parents, and educators who supported this year’s activities.