Yesterday I went to preview a vacant home. When the former occupants moved out they left behind plastic drawers, toys and pet dishes, the yard was still littered with them. The heavy rains have filled them up leaving perfect breeding ponds for mosquitoes. Many tropical viruses like Dengue are spread by mosquitoes and although Hawaii has never had a home grown case, Dengue has been found in travellers from other parts of the world. We certainly don't want it to get a foothold here.
Keeping the mosquito population under control is critical to reducing the threat to our Islands from this and other mosquito transmitted diseases. In the past, the Department of Health could be called on to treat infestations but due to budget cuts can no longer do so. It's up to us.
The Hawaii Dept of Health is asking homeowners to check around their homes for standing water that could be a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Empty anything that could hold water including buckets, flower pots, rain gutters and the like. Bromeliads and other plants with tightly formed leaves should also be shaken to empty the water that has collected in thier cup.
For more information call the Hawaii State Department of Health, Vector Control @ 808-483-2535
Let's all stay healthy in 2011
Maureen
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