Health officials are increasingly concerned about rising mosquito populations and the challenges they face in controlling the spread of mosquito-borne illnesses. Access to properties for preventative measures is proving difficult, hindering efforts to mitigate potential outbreaks. This is a critical public health issue, as mosquito-borne diseases can pose significant risks to communities.
According to the 10th epidemiological bulletin, 154 mosquito breeding sites have been identified, an increase of 26 in just one week. Michele Meneses, superintendent of Health Surveillance, stated that this rise is directly linked to the difficulties her teams are encountering when trying to access properties.
“We are finding a lot of difficulty with access. There are residents who do not allow the monitoring of traps and even ask for them to be removed, which harms monitoring. There are many closed houses, especially in areas like the Center and Cidade Nova, which end up becoming possible breeding grounds,” she said.
Even with the use of traps like ovitraps and Larvicidal Dissemination Stations (LDS), entering homes is essential to identify and eliminate breeding sites that aren’t visible from the outside. This highlights the importance of a multi-faceted approach to mosquito control.
Andrea Vallente, the Code of Conduct officer, emphasized that closed properties are also the responsibility of the owners. She explained that unoccupied homes, particularly those owned by people with multiple properties or who reside in other neighborhoods, require regular attention.
“Even if closed, the property needs to be maintained. It is important that the owner goes to the location, checks the yard, water tanks, drains, and swimming pools. These places can become breeding grounds. If preferred, they can contact Health Surveillance to schedule a visit. What cannot happen is for this property to remain without any inspection,” she advised.
Vallente also noted that even when notifications are issued, cleaning is often superficial. “The interior of the houses, drains and other points are not checked because we do not have access. The collaboration of owners is essential,” she added.
Here’s a breakdown of breeding site locations (total 154):
- Industrial District: 36
- Center: 35
- Quinta: 18
- Cidade Nova: 14
- Povo Novo: 08
- Linha do Parque, Buchholz, Bolaxa and São Miguel: 05 each
- Airport, Lar Gaúcho/Navegantes and Bernadeth: 03 each
- FURG Carreiros, Prado and Junção: 02 each
- Municipal, Cibrazém, Orla, Trevo, Vila Maria, BGV, Mangueira and Atlântico Sul: 01 each
The following numbers represent breeding sites identified in the last 30 days:
- Center: 18
- Industrial District: 15
- Quinta: 11
- Cidade Nova: 10
- Povo Novo: 08
- Linha do Parque and Buchholz: 03 each
- Airport and Lar Gaúcho/Navegantes: 02 each
- FURG Carreiros, Orla, Cibrazém, Atlântico Sul, Municipal, Bolaxa and Vila Maria: 01 each
As of now, there are no confirmed cases of dengue fever in the municipality. Of the 28 suspected cases, 26 have been ruled out, and two are still under analysis. Statewide, confirmed cases have increased to 257 this week.
Health Surveillance officials reiterate that combating the mosquito relies heavily on public participation. Allowing access for health agents, permitting monitoring, and maintaining properties – occupied or not – free of standing water are fundamental measures. The findings underscore the ongoing public health challenges related to mosquito-borne diseases.
Without access to properties, mosquito control efforts are compromised, and the risk to the entire community increases. Health Surveillance is available at 32337289 (WhatsApp only) for reporting and scheduling visits.
Assessoria de Comunicação Social Prefeitura Municipal do Rio Grande
Foto: Divulgação
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