The Ministry of Health and the Central Board of Health have launched an intensified public education campaign to mark Caribbean Mosquito Awareness Week 2026, urging residents across Antigua and Barbuda to take proactive steps to eliminate mosquito breeding sites around their homes and communities.
Health authorities say the campaign comes in response to elevated dengue fever alerts across the Caribbean, with several neighbouring islands reporting increases in cases. While Antigua has not seen a major dengue outbreak, officials say prevention is far more effective than response.
Prevention Measures
"Dengue is a preventable disease and every Antiguan has a role to play," said Chief Medical Officer Dr. Rhonda Sealey-Thomas. "Eliminating standing water, wearing repellent, and using screens are simple actions that make a real difference."
The Central Board of Health will conduct a series of community fogging operations this week in high-density residential areas of St. John's, and has deployed health educators to all primary schools to deliver mosquito prevention lessons. Residents are encouraged to call the vector control hotline to report areas with stagnant water.
