The Health Ministry is ramping up efforts to combat dengue fever and other mosquito-borne diseases with a thorough initiative aimed at reducing the prevalence of these illnesses. This proactive campaign involves the deployment of fly and mosquito traps across high-risk areas in Viti Levu, with the intention of mitigating the spread of diseases associated with these pests.
Installation of the traps is already underway in critical locations, including the Nausori Air Terminal, Nadi Market, and Nadi International Airport. Health Minister Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu emphasized that this effort is part of the National Dengue Fever and Other Vector-Borne Disease Control Program, set to run from 2025 to 2027. The primary objective is to enhance community protection while strengthening public health measures.
A significant contribution to this initiative has been made by the GX Foundation, which has committed $2 million toward procuring essential equipment to combat mosquito-borne illnesses. This funding will provide crucial resources, including 450 mosquito lamps, 2,000 rapid dengue test kits, 500 bed nets, and 20,000 sticky fly traps, all vital tools in the ongoing battle against dengue and other vector-borne diseases.
The initiative not only focuses on high-traffic areas such as airports and markets but also seeks to extend its reach to public facilities, including the Colonial War Memorial Hospital. Officials are stressing the importance of community participation, calling on residents to help maintain clean surroundings. This collaborative effort aims to ensure the effectiveness of traps and preventive actions in curtailing disease transmission.
Overall, this initiative underscores a dedicated commitment to tackling public health challenges, with the expectation that it will significantly benefit the health and well-being of communities throughout Viti Levu. Such concerted efforts reflect a hopeful and proactive stance in the ongoing fight against mosquito-borne illnesses.