Malaria monitoring and surveillance programme intensified in SVG

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment says it has intensified its malaria monitoring and surveillance programme to ensure that this country remains endemic malaria free.

In a release issued on Tuesday, the Ministry said it has intensified the programme because of the presence of a malaria case relapse here in St Vincent and the Grenadines and solicits the support and cooperation of everyone in this regard.{{more}}

“Malaria is a disease of international concern and is not endemic to this country. It is caused by the bite of an infective anopheles mosquito. Over the past decade, Insect Vector Control Inspectors have identified at least one species of anopheles on the mainland. Unlike the species of aedes mosquitoes, the anopheles species breeds in free flowing oxygenated waters such as clean rivers, and streams, including springs. Anopheles mosquitoes bite late in the evening and continue throughout the night. Because of this unique feeding habit, control measures include but are not limited to the use of bed nets, preferably treated ones, the use of insect repellants and the thorough clearing and cleaning of rivers and streams.

“The Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment is confident that this isolated imported case will not spread to the population and thanks everyone in advance for their support of the efforts of the professionals at the Environmental Management Department as they continue the work of reducing vector borne diseases throughout the country,” the release said.