Fisheries Division and CBH encourage fisherfolk to join fight to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses

Fisher folk are being asked to play their part in controlling the
mosquito population by preventing the insects from breeding on
their vessels.
 
In light of the increased cases of dengue fever, the Fisheries Division
and the Central Board of Health are appealing to all boat owners to
adhere to the “Guidelines for Controlling Mosquitoes at Fisheries
Complexes and Fish Landing Sites.”
 
To control the spread of dengue and prevent incidents of
Chikungunya, small boats that are inactive and without a centre
console should be turned over, the authorities say.

Those with centre consoles should be covered with tarpaulin or any
other suitable cover, which should be pulled tight to prevent it from
collecting water.

Active boats that might collect water during a downpour should be
bailed out, and any water that might have otherwise ended up in the
vessel should be bailed out every other day, the Division advises.
 
Meanwhile, larger boats that are inactive and on land should keep
their hatches closed to prevent water from entering the bilge.
 
Fishermen are also being advised to ensure that all deck drains
(scuppers) are clear to prevent the accumulation of water on the
deck; that the bilge is cleared of water on a regular basis; and boats
using tires as fenders, or as adding for dry docking, should have
holes in them to allow water to drain freely.

The Fisheries Division says that fishermen should be aware of their
surroundings and ensure that containers are covered, or turned
over, when not in use, or filled with drainage holes.
 
Keeping a clean environment free from bushes, litter and garbage is
vital, the Fisheries Division adds, since they all serve as habitats for
mosquitoes and other vectors.
 
“In cases where there are high levels of adult mosquitoes, please
contact the Central Board of Health or Fisheries Division,” the
authorities encourage fisherfolk.