The Environmental Health Division (EHD) has successfully concluded Caribbean Mosquito Awareness Week, marking a week of meaningful engagement, education and community action across the Territory.

Acting Chief Environmental Health Officer, Ms. Henrietta Alexander, said that this year’s observance was not just about awareness. “It was about meeting people where they are, starting conversations, and encouraging real change in how we approach mosquito control in our homes and communities.”

Throughout the week, the Vector Control Unit actively engaged students and educators through visits to Francis Lettsome, Ebenezer Thomas, Leonora Delville and the Joyce Samuel Primary Schools, Motions Daycare and Preschool, and Imagination Academy VI, delivering interactive sessions focused on mosquito-borne diseases and practical prevention.

The week culminated in a community expo at Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park, where residents and visitors had the opportunity to learn more about mosquito control, ask questions, and connect directly with public health professionals.

“At its core, Caribbean Mosquito Awareness Week reinforced a simple but powerful message that mosquito control is not just the responsibility of government.  It is a shared responsibility,” Ms. Alexander said.

She further stated that there was strong participation, curiosity and a growing understanding that small, consistent actions can make a big difference in protecting public health.

The Environmental Health Division is reminding residents that the most effective way to reduce mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika is through source reduction and therefore, residents are encouraged to:

• Inspect yards and other surroundings weekly and keep it clean
• Cover, mesh, or turn over all water holding receptacles
• Properly dispose of items that can collect water, such as tires, buckets, and bottles
• Keep surroundings clean and free of stagnant water
• Ensure proper screening of homes where possible
• Use protective clothing and mosquito repellents when needed 

“When we take these simple steps consistently, we significantly reduce the risk to ourselves, our families, and our wider community,” the Acting Chief stated.

The Division extends its appreciation to all schools, partners, and community members who participated and supported the week’s activities.

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.