The Environmental Health Division  is joining regional partners in observing Caribbean Mosquito Awareness Week 2026 from May 11–15, under the theme “Stop Disease Transmission, Start Source Reduction.”

This year’s campaign places a strong emphasis on empowering communities across the Virgin Islands to take practical action against mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika.

The message is clear: while the mosquito may be small, its impact on public health is significant.  Throughout the week, the Environmental Health Division will be actively engaging communities through public outreach activities, school visits, and media engagements, all aimed at raising awareness and encouraging simple but effective behaviour change.

As part of this year’s observance, the Division is also engaging the Territory’s youth through a Poetry and Art Competition, inviting students to creatively explore the impact of the Aedes aegypti mosquito, the diseases it spreads, and the importance of eliminating breeding sites.

This initiative is designed to build awareness early and encourage students to become advocates for healthier homes and communities, using creativity as a tool for public health education.

At the core of the campaign is source reduction. the most effective way to prevent mosquito breeding and reduce the risk of outbreaks.

Residents are reminded that it only takes a small amount of standing water for mosquitoes to breed, making routine checks around the home essential.

The Environmental Health Division is encouraging the public to:

• Inspect yards and other surroundings weekly and keep it clean
• Cover, mesh, or turn over all water holding receptacles
• Properly dispose of waste that can collect water
• Ensure windows and doors are fitted with screens
• Wear protective clothing and use mosquito repellents when necessary 

“Vector control is everyone’s business,” Acting Chief Environmental Health Officer, Ms. Henrietta Alexander emphasized, noting that community participation is critical in protecting public health across the Territory.  By taking simple, consistent actions, residents can significantly reduce mosquito breeding and help safeguard their families and communities.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development remains committed to protecting and promoting the health and social well-being of the people of the Virgin Islands through effective policies, sustainable programmes, and strategic partnerships that support a safe, healthy, and resilient society.