Mosquito Awareness Week, observed from May 12-16, is underway across the Caribbean, and Belize is stepping up its efforts to combat mosquito-borne diseases with both public outreach and enhanced vector control capacity.
This year’s theme, “Let’s Eliminate Mosquito Breeding Sites and Protect Our Community from Dengue,” reflects the growing regional concern over the rise of illnesses transmitted by mosquitoes, including dengue, chikungunya, and Zika.
In Belize, the Ministry of Health & Wellness is marking the week by bolstering its vector control program. The Ministry announced the acquisition of six Ultra-Low Volume (ULV) foggers, valued at $170,000, which were distributed to all district vector control units. This investment raises the country’s total fleet of fogging units to 20, improving the Ministry’s capacity to tackle mosquito populations ahead of the rainy season, when mosquito-borne diseases typically spike.
“These vital equipment will significantly enhance the program’s capacity at a critical time when mosquito populations and dengue cases typically surge,” the Ministry said in a statement. “The ULV foggers will ensure that vector control teams are adequately equipped to respond swiftly and effectively to mosquito-related health threats.”
The Ministry is conducting outreach and education campaigns to engage communities in the fight against mosquitoes. Residents are being urged to eliminate standing water around homes, use insect repellent, and maintain clean surroundings—key steps in reducing mosquito breeding and preventing disease transmission.