I AM compelled to seek your assistance in highlighting the problems some homeowners face which seriously impinge on their health status.

I refer specifically to the threat of that much dreaded dengue fever. My question is: have we taken all the precautions necessary? Have we determined that fogging is the best alternative? As I see it, fogging only gives a false sense of security. Fogging might be more effective in the United States where there are large bodies of water.

In Barbados, the little streams and rivulets are easily accessible with little effort. It must, however, be pointed out that "source reduction" is the most effective means of reducing the adult mosquito.

This raises another question: how do we determined whether or not the mosquito has built up resistance? Have we done live biosay tests? It must be noted that breeding places for the destruction of mosquito larvae (larviciding) is a must.

Thermo fogging, which aims at adulticiding, is to some extent limited. The operator must know the wind speed and direction, the temperature, the natural flora and fauna, e.g. coconut trees, trees of no commercial value and so on.

What part can Government play? It can ensure proper maintenance of all sullage wells and call on all owners of unused and vacant lots to clean and maintain them.

As I recount, existing vacant lots provide adequate harbourage for rats and mice.

What part can the environmental officer play?

1. Visit household monthly (inspections).
2. Liaise with the land valuation and land tax agency to ascertain the ownership of unused and vacant lots.
3. Institute legal proceedings against defaulters as provided for under the Public Health Act, current and in force.

Footnote: The environmental health officer should not be fettered by theorists of members of (No Action Talk Only) NATO.

Then and only then can these officers effectively carry out their mandate, which is "to promote the health of the people, recognising that the wealth of the nation is influenced by the health of the people".

- Litchfield Morgan