CPS representative Maria Henry (second left) addressing stakeholders during the session.
PHILIPSBURG--The Health Ministry’s Collective Prevention Services (CPS), in collaboration with VectorStars and Mobocon, held a consultation evening at the Government Administration Building recently to hear from residents and partners in the community about the mosquito situation in the country.
Persons active in vector control activities in St. Maarten and St. Eustatius, specialists from the United Sates and the Netherlands and Community Development Officers were amongst those present at the meeting.
The meeting was to assess the mosquito situation; discuss possible collaborative activities and to exchange information and ideas on combating and eliminating health threats of mosquito- borne diseases, such as Zika, Chikungunya and Dengue.
After the passing of Hurricane Irma, CPS resumed its media campaign to inform the public about its activities and the elimination of mosquito-breeding sites.
With the assistance of VectorStars and of a Medical Entomologist, along with other Departments from different islands, CPS is making efforts to stem the mosquito population.
Mobocon coordinator Medical Entomologist Marieta Braks, who is responsible for reducing the mosquito population in the Caribbean Netherlands, said stemming the mosquito population requires a lot of manpower and financial resources – both of which are limited. “So we have to do the best with what we have.” She said the community can assist by reducing breeding areas in their yard and surrounding areas.
A press release said CPS is busy working with community groups, students and households to reduce mosquitoes. The results of a recent survey show that residents are aware of mosquitoes and how to get rid of their breeding sites.
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