The recent rains have given rise to greater opportunities for mosquitoes to have a wider number of breeding areas. As you know mosquitoes spread three illnesses which have affected the Turks and Caicos Islands. Though the impact of Dengue, Chikungunya and Zika has been minimal, we need your help to ensure that it stays that way.
Ensure that all containers used to collect water are covered to prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs in them. Do not allow old bottles, buckets, toys, plant pots, or other vessels to collect any stagnant water since these also allow mosquitoes to breed.
Ensure that your surroundings are clear of high grass and bushes, old derelict vehicles, old tires, old drums or garbage. Do not allow these items to collect around your houses or other spaces as these harbor mosquitoes which can bite and infect you. Clean your surroundings of these items regularly to make sure you don’t give these pests the chance to bite and infect you or your family members.
It is important to cover up exposed areas of your body to prevent being bitten, long sleeved clothing to cover up especially arms and legs at dusk and dawn when these mosquitoes bite is important. Use insect repellent and sleep under the cover of a mosquito net where possible to add to your prevention efforts.
If they slip past your guard and you are bitten be careful and look out for fever, skin rash, red eyes, joint pain, discomfort and weakness. You can take medicine to bring down the fever and relieve the pain and keep close watch. If these symptoms get more severe, go to a doctor or medical facility immediately. Do not take aspirin or ibuprofen as treatment because these medicines are blood thinners and the diseases may cause internal bleeding.
Fighting these pests and keeping diseases at a low rate is in our hands. Let’s work together to keep mosquitoes from harming our families and communities.
