Dengue, Zika and chikungunya
Dengue, Zika and chikungunya are viruses that make you sick. Dengue can sometimes even be life-threatening. These viruses are spread by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which can be recognized by its black legs with white stripes. This mosquito is also active on Bonaire and can spread these diseases.
How to prevent dengue, Zika and chikungunya
Fortunately, you can do a lot yourself to prevent these diseases. First, you need to make sure mosquitoes cannot breed in your area. In addition, you should avoid getting stung. If you have one of these diseases, you are infectious to others, via mosquitoes!
1. Eliminate breeding sites
The Aedes aegypti mosquito lives around people and lays its eggs in standing clean water. Walk around your yard once a week and look for items that may hold water. To prevent mosquitoes from breeding, do the following weekly:
- Remove any items that contain or can collect water. View a list of possible items here.
- If you cannot remove certain items, use the rough side of a scouring pad to remove any eggs (black dots) from smooth walls.
- Do you have barrels or containers to collect rainwater for plants or animals? If so, seal them properly to keep mosquitoes out. You can do this, for example, using a mosquito net or cloth tied with an elastic cord.
Do you have any questions about treating rain barrels and containers? Call the Public Health Department at +599 715 5324.
2. Avoid mosquito bites
The Aedes aegypti mosquito stings during the day and is most active in the early morning and late afternoon. To avoid getting stung take the following measures, especially during these hours:
- Use a spray/lotion with at least 30% DEET.
- Make sure your home is free of mosquitoes; keep windows and doors closed and use mosquito nets and screens.
- Sleep under a mosquito net both during the day and at night.
- Wear light-colored clothing, long pants, long sleeves, socks and closed shoes. Especially in the early morning and late afternoon.
Prevent dengue, Zika and chikungunya!
