PHILIPSBURG--The purchasing of a hand-held fogger and stepping up its mosquito prevention/elimination measures on a weekly basis are amongst the things the Port will be doing as part of its zika prevention efforts.

 

The Port will also explore the possibilities of helping in a district prevention campaign as well as the provision of information/education displays for staff, third party employees, cruise passengers and crew.

 

The Port agreed to the measures after meeting with Collective Prevention Services (CPS) on the mosquito-borne zika virus recently. There are currently no confirmed cases reported in Dutch St. Maarten, though one has been reported in French St. Martin.

 

CPS said in a press release on Thursday that the need for collaboration with cargo companies was also discussed to prevent the importation of mosquitoes in containers and vehicle tires and other items that are destined for the island, as well as mega yacht agents with respect to proactive preventive measures and the elimination of mosquito breeding.

 

The Port St. Maarten was represented by R. Levenstone, H. Peters, B. Ortega and B. Peters, while CPS was represented by L. Francisca, Maria Henry and Dr. Virginia Asin.

 

CPS reiterated its appeal on the community to take proactive measures to eliminate mosquito breeding sites in and around their homes and businesses.

 

Dengue fever, zika and chikungunya are transmitted by the female vector Aedes Aegypti mosquito, distinguished by its markings. The body of the mosquito has alternate black and white horizontal stripes. The Aedes aegypti mosquito lays her eggs in clear (clean) stagnant water. Within eight days the mosquito can complete its life cycle from egg, to larva to pupa and to adult mosquito.

 

“Actively destroy or dispose of tin cans, old tires, buckets, unused plastic swimming pools or other containers that collect and hold water. Do not allow water to accumulate in the saucers of flowerpots, cemetery urns/vases or in pet dishes for more than two days. Throw out the water and turn them over every time it collects water,” CPS urged the community.

 

“Check around construction sites or do-it-yourself improvements to ensure that proper backfilling and grading is realised to prevent drainage problems which can be a source for standing water. Empty all construction containers such as blue tanks, buckets, paint cans etc.”

 

CPS said mosquitoes can be kept out of homes by keeping windows, doors and porches tightly screened (16-18 mesh). Those insects that do get into structures can be eliminated with a fly swatter or an aerosol space spray containing synergized pyrethrum. Screen off cistern outlets, cover and screen septic tanks properly. For more information about dengue fever, zika and chikungunya prevention measures call CPS at tel. 542-2078 or 542-3003.

 

The Daily Hearld