Within the lead article in the T&T Guardian of June 16 regarding the US issuing virus travel alerts, it is stated "the reason T&T hasn't the virus is that a lot of work is being done by agencies including the Insect Vector Unit to try and control the spread".What pray have they been doing? Whatever it is has not been in this area. What about dengue? Will this still not be a problem in the rainy season?
After having tried unsuccessfully to contact the Insect Vector Unit some months ago, in desperation I called the Ministry of Health and a very helpful Customer Liaison Officer investigated my complaint, only to discover that the Vector Unit had moved.I was given the new number and further complained that our area Moka, Maraval was last sprayed on or around the July 2, 2013.
I was informed that the reason for this was that the vehicle was, and still is, out of action. Meanwhile, other areas are being sprayed regularly.
Over the last few weeks the mosquito infestation has become very serious. Whilst households can take precautions, it is surely the responsibility of the Health Ministry to ensure that regular spraying is carried out for citizens. I would suggest that the Health Minister find the funds from somewhere to purchase a new vehicle so that our area can receive the regular spraying that is necessary during the rainy season.
D Krogh,
via e-mail