MRCU Highlights Role of Community in Mosquito Control

14 May 2025, 04:53 AM

Health

The Mosquito Research and Control Unit (MRCU) is joining with the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) and regional partners to mark Caribbean Mosquito Awareness Week 2025, observed from May 12–16 under the theme: “Stop Disease Transmission, Start Source Reduction.”

While many countries in the region are currently experiencing outbreaks of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue, Zika, and chikungunya, the Cayman Islands is not. However, the presence of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes—capable of transmitting these diseases—along with frequent international travel, means that we must all remain vigilant.

“The risk is never zero, especially in a highly mobile region like ours,” said Kevin Watler, MRCU’s Public Education and Outreach Officer. “Everyone has a role to play in reducing mosquito breeding around their homes and communities.”

Dr. Horace Cox, Acting Director, Surveillance, Disease Prevention and Control at CARPHA, added: “Mosquitoes may be small, but the diseases they spread are not. Source reduction is one of the more powerful weapons we have. This is everyone’s fight.”

MRCU carries out regular property inspections and takes an environmentally sensitive approach to vector control across all three islands. But prevention is a shared responsibility—and source reduction at the household level is one of the most effective ways to prevent disease transmission.

Here’s how you can help:

Check around your home for containers that collect water—like buckets, tyres, and plant saucers.
Empty and scrub them out weekly to eliminate mosquito eggs.
Cover water storage containers with tight-fitting lids.
Keep gutters clear and remove debris where water can collect.

These simple actions make a big difference in protecting our families and communities.

MRCU continues to collaborate with CARPHA and regional partners through public education and surveillance efforts. This week, we encourage everyone in the Cayman Islands to learn more, get involved, and take action.

To learn more, visit our website and social media platforms. Together, we can reduce the risk of disease and keep the Cayman Islands safe.