The Ministry of Health and Wellness has intensified its mosquito control operations as Jamaica experiences a seasonal increase in mosquito populations and dengue cases. Despite the rise in activity, current figures remain well below epidemic levels. The Government continues to emphasize personal responsibility alongside national efforts to prevent the spread of mosquito-borne diseases.
Key Details
Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. the Honourable Christopher Tufton, confirmed in Parliament on October 14, 2025, that the situation remains manageable and under control. The Ministry has deployed additional vector control teams and enhanced fogging activities to limit mosquito breeding and transmission risks.
According to the Ministry’s latest data, Jamaica recorded 23 dengue cases in September, far below the epidemic threshold of 257. Year-to-date, 379 cases have been confirmed compared to 1,819 during the same period in 2024, marking a significant decline.
Dr. Tufton reiterated the importance of community action in reducing mosquito breeding grounds:
“While our dengue numbers are low at this time, persons must continue to take precautions to prevent illness. Personal responsibility must become priority. Jamaicans must search and destroy mosquito breeding sites even as we lead with vector control measures.”
Currently, 81% of the Ministry’s national fleet and 84% of handheld fogging machines are operational, ensuring wide coverage across parishes. Fogging activities have been strategically focused on schools and densely populated areas, particularly during weekends to minimize disruption.
The Enhanced Vector Control Programme, initiated in June 2025, has expanded the workforce by 131%, with 492 permanent vector control workers now in place. Plans are underway to add 377 more positions, which could potentially triple the workforce by early 2026.
In collaboration with the International Centre for Environmental and Nuclear Sciences (ICENS), the Ministry is advancing its Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) pilot project, designed to reduce mosquito populations through the release of sterile males. The first release is expected in the fourth quarter of 2025 following successful radiating trials.
Background
Jamaica typically experiences increased mosquito activity following heavy rainfall, which creates more breeding sites. The Ministry has responded to this seasonal trend with sustained public awareness campaigns and intensified control strategies.
The ongoing partnership with ICENS represents a major innovation in public health, introducing science-based solutions to complement traditional control methods such as fogging and community cleanups.
The decline in dengue cases this year reflects both the impact of these initiatives and increased citizen participation in maintaining clean environments.
Quotes
Dr. Christopher Tufton, Minister of Health and Wellness:
“Madam Speaker, we must move with alacrity to search and destroy mosquito breeding sites — areas with standing water, such as puddles, water tanks, containers, and old tires. Places with undisposed garbage and poor sanitation also contribute to the spread of the insect.”
Analysis
Jamaica’s proactive response to the mosquito season demonstrates the Government’s strategic shift toward long-term public health resilience. The integration of advanced technology, such as the Sterile Insect Technique, suggests a forward-thinking approach that combines immediate control with sustainable prevention.
However, experts emphasise that national success depends equally on citizen participation. Without consistent community involvement—particularly in waste management and water storage monitoring—government measures alone may not yield lasting results.
Our Opinion
The Ministry’s data-driven and science-backed approach to managing mosquito populations reflects strong governance and preparedness. By focusing on both operational capacity and citizen engagement, Jamaica appears well-positioned to prevent future outbreaks. Continued investment in public health innovation, along with sustained public cooperation, will remain critical to safeguarding communities year-round.
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