The Environmental Health Division is urging residents and property owners to reduce mosquito breeding after periods of heavy rainfall.

Acting Chief Environmental Health Officer, Ms. Henrietta Alexander said that this can be done by checking surroundings and eliminating standing water to prevent mosquito breeding and the spread of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and chikungunya.

Ms. Alexander said, “Dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases remain a serious public health concern, and prevention begins at the household level. By taking simple steps after heavy or consistent rains, the community can significantly reduce mosquito populations and disease risk.”

The community is encouraged to Fight the Bite: Prevent and Protect, Day and Night by doing the following:

• Turn-over, empty, or discard water-collecting receptacles
• Cover water storage containers tightly
• Clear drains and gutters
• Dispose of unused items that collect rainwater
• Check yards, balconies, and surrounding areas regularly

The community is reminded that mosquitoes breed rapidly in stagnant water, and even small amounts collected in everyday items can produce hundreds of insects within days. Buckets, drums, flower pots, discarded containers, old tyres, tarpaulins, and uncovered cisterns are common breeding sites when left with standing water. Over turning and properly managing these items is a simple but critical step in protecting households.

For more information or to report mosquito breeding concerns, contact the Environmental Health Division at (284) 468-5110 or via email at ehd@gov.vg.