KINGSTON, Jamaica — A nationwide public health push is underway as Jamaica races to counter a rising tide of mosquito activity threatening both comfort and health across the island.
Following a sharp transition from months of drought to intense rainfall, the country is now facing ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes — a development that has prompted an aggressive response from health authorities.
Massive Vector-Control Scale-Up
The Ministry of Health has significantly expanded its vector-control workforce, more than doubling its permanent staff in under three years — from 213 in 2022 to 492 in 2025 — with plans to hire nearly 400 more. Officials say this move is critical to maintain field operations as mosquito populations rise rapidly in both urban and rural zones.
Additional support measures include a directive for regional teams to increase overtime hours and bring in temporary reinforcements throughout the remainder of the season.
Vehicles and Equipment Back in Action
Approximately 81% of Jamaica’s national mosquito-control fleet is now active, including 52 vehicles and 139 swing fog machines currently in operation. Fogging is being intensified in residential zones and will also be rolled out at schools during weekends — a move coordinated in collaboration with the Ministry of Education.
“Schools are a high-risk zone due to standing water and outdoor spaces, and we must protect both students and staff,” one senior official noted.
Public Awareness and Clean-Up Campaign Incoming
A nationwide clean-up operation is set to launch at the end of October, targeting community breeding sites like discarded containers, clogged drains, and stagnant puddles. The campaign aims to empower Jamaicans to take direct action within their homes and neighborhoods.
Health officials warn that the spike in mosquitoes — particularly the nuisance variety that thrive in domestic areas — could trigger an increase in vector-borne illnesses such as dengue, Zika, and chikungunya if breeding sites aren’t eliminated.
Message to the Public: Search and Destroy
Citizens are being urged to remain vigilant: inspect yards, empty containers that collect water, and report any issues to the local health departments.
“The conditions have changed, and the mosquitoes have returned,” said one health representative. “But with coordinated effort, we can get ahead of this.”