The Environmental Health Division has launched a poetry and art competition as it prepares to observe Caribbean Mosquito Awareness Week 2025.

The week will be observed from May 12–16, under the theme: "Small Bite, Big Threat – Stop Disease Transmission, Start Source Reduction."

Acting Deputy Chief Environmental Health Officer, Mrs. Shamelle Thomas said the competitions were conceptualised to share the point of view of a child regarding the Aedes aegypti mosquito and its impact. 

Mrs. Thomas said, “Children are vital advocates for change and we want to encourage their participation to help us to propagate the message of reducing mosquito breeding sites.”

The poetry competition is geared towards children ages 8 to 11 with the following guidelines.

• The poem is to be presented on size A4 (8.5 x 11 inches) paper.
• A maximum of 25 lines.
• The poem must be about the Aedes aegypti mosquito.
  • Mention how you feel about the mosquito
  • Describe the mosquito
  • Mention a disease transmitted (passed on) by the mosquito
  • Mention the type of breeding sites of the mosquito and 
  • How you can protect yourself from being bitten by the mosquitoes

The art competition is for children ages 12 to17 and submission should be made with the following criteria.

• Art is to be presented on size A4 (8.5 x 11 inches) paper. 
• Art work focus: Aedes aegypti mosquito life cycle (4 stages: egg, larvae, pupae, adult). 
• Art medium: sketch, pastel, water colour, pencil crayons, crayons, acrylic or mixed mediums. 
• Work must be original
• Be creative

The deadline for submission is May 16 and can be made in person at the Environmental Health Division or via email at EHD@gov.vg.  For additional information call 468-5110.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development is committed to improving the health of the people of the Virgin Islands.