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By Kevon Browne
St. Kitts and Nevis (WINN): The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) has called on member countries to remain vigilant against mosquito-borne diseases as they pose a significant public health threat to the Caribbean region.
In recent weeks, there has been an increase in reports of dengue outbreaks, with some cases resulting in hospitalization and death. In addition, laboratory testing has confirmed cases of Zika and Chikungunya viruses. St. Kitts and Nevis has recently recorded cases of dengue and has taken steps to educate residents on how to protect themselves from these outbreaks.
Dr. Lisa Indar, interim executive director of CARPHA, reported a significant increase in suspected dengue cases across the Americas, with a 200-fold increase in the first half of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. Dr. Indar stressed the importance of strengthening surveillance, prevention, and control measures to curb the spread of arboviruses in the Caribbean.
“These viral infections are primarily transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which is endemic to the region,” said Dr. Horace Cox, CARPHA Assistant Director for Surveillance, Disease Prevention and Control. “With the start of hurricane season, CARPHA urges member countries to strengthen integrated vector management strategies within their communities, including eliminating mosquito breeding sites to reduce larval populations.”
CARPHA noted that dengue outbreaks typically occur every three to five years and have previously challenged regional public health systems during outbreaks of chikungunya and Zika. The agency also reminded the public that the Aedes aegypti mosquito is active during the day and stressed the importance of personal precautions to minimize mosquito bites. Extra caution is recommended for vulnerable groups such as infants, young children, the elderly, and women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant.
CARPHA launched Caribbean Mosquito Awareness Week (CMAW) 2024 in May to address these threats. The initiative highlights challenges and solutions in controlling mosquito populations and preventing diseases such as dengue, Zika, chikungunya and malaria. Last year’s report showed 2,307 suspected cases of dengue and 927 laboratory confirmed cases, highlighting the urgency of effective disease management.
Dr. Joy St. John, Executive Director of CARPHA, stressed the importance of a coordinated effort to tackle mosquito-borne diseases. “The Caribbean cannot approach this problem in a haphazard manner,” she said. “We need everyone to participate – from Ministries of Health to hotels, schools and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). We also need the help of the media, but most importantly, we need the commitment of Caribbean citizens.”
This year’s theme is “Small Bites, Big Threats” and the slogan is “Stop the spread of disease and reduce it at the source”, highlighting the potential consequences of inaction and the importance of proactive community engagement. Eliminating mosquito breeding sites can significantly reduce the spread of these diseases.
Dr. Horace Cox stressed the importance of simple actions such as keeping drains clear, securely covering water containers, and properly disposing of tires to reduce mosquito breeding sites and significantly reduce the spread of disease. As CMAW gets underway, CARPHA encourages everyone in the region to get involved and take proactive steps to create a safer, healthier future for the Caribbean.
Caribbean Mosquito Awareness Week is funded by the European Union under the 11th EDF Programme to support the strengthening of health systems to prevent and control outbreaks of Zika virus and other mosquito-borne diseases in the Caribbean. Sustained efforts and community engagement are essential to protect public health and ensure the safety and well-being of Caribbean residents and visitors.
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