Cozumel’s Battle Against Dengue Outbreak: Inside the Mosquito “Army”

Peripheral neighborhoods in the city of Cozumel are currently experiencing a significant mosquito problem. This issue has been exacerbated by recent rainfall and water stagnation caused by the passage of Hurricane Beryl last weekend. As a result, there's been a rapid increase in the mosquito population, necessitating immediate action to control their numbers.

The Cozumel Secretary of Health's vector department has responded to this emergency by initiating a comprehensive campaign. This includes constant fumigation in these and other affected areas on the island. The primary goal of this campaign is to decrease the mosquito population and, in turn, reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue, zika, and chikungunya.

Hugo Alberto Pérez Rosas, the coordinator of vectors in the municipality, has stated that they are intensifying the application of larvicidal powder. This is a crucial step in reducing the number of mosquito offspring, especially in areas where water has accumulated.

"We are attacking the adult mosquito population with fumigations, particularly in jungle areas where water accumulation is higher," Pérez Rosas said. "These actions help to create a barrier to reduce the presence of vectors." He also mentioned that measures are being taken to prevent the hatching of new mosquitoes in bodies of water.

Neighborhoods at the highest risk include Félix González 1 and 2, Las Fincas, Ranchitos, Huertos Familiares, CTM, Ampliación CTM, and Magisterio. Newer neighborhoods like Miraflores, Altamar, Encanto, and Caribe are also at risk, especially in vacant lots where water tends to accumulate.

However, Pérez Rosas emphasized that this is a joint effort between health authorities and citizens. Residents are encouraged to keep their yards clean and free of water deposits that could serve as potential mosquito breeding grounds. The ultimate goal of these efforts is to significantly reduce the health risks associated with diseases transmitted by mosquitoes.