Property owners and residents alike have been called on to assist in reducing mosquito breeding following periods of heavy rainfall. Photo: mosquitalk.com

Acting Chief Environmental Health Officer, Ms Henrietta Alexander, said Dengue fever and other mosquito-borne diseases remain a serious public health concern. Photo: Facebook/File

In its annual notice on February 12, 2026, the Environmental Health Division, Acting Chief Environmental Health Officer, Ms Henrietta Alexander, said Dengue fever and other mosquito-borne diseases remain a serious public health concern. 

“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.”

What you should do

People are encouraged to check their surroundings and eliminate standing water to prevent mosquito breeding and the spread of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and chikungunya.

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

Eliminate even small amounts of water

The notice reminded the public 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.

The Environmental Health Division advised that overturning and properly managing these items is a simple but critical step in protecting households.