Dengue surveillance is intensified in Jalisco with the installation of more than 15,000 ovitraps

Data gathered allows implementation of measures such as larval control, elimination of breeding sites, or fogging when necessary

As part of ongoing efforts to prevent and control dengue, the Jalisco Ministry of Health (SSJ) maintains an active entomological surveillance system, with the installation of more than 15,000 ovitraps strategically distributed in communities throughout the state.

Miguel Ángel Becerra García, State Coordinator of the Dengue and Other Arboviruses Program at the Jalisco Health Services Public Agency (OPD Servicios de Salud Jalisco), spoke about the role of ovitraps as a primary tool for monitoring the mosquito that transmits the disease.

“They are essential for monitoring and staying informed about the presence and density of the Aedes aegypti mosquito, the main transmitter of dengue, Zika, and chikungunya. Based on this analysis, we can generate crucial information for implementing comprehensive vector control measures, such as larval control, and determining where to eliminate breeding sites and, if necessary, carry out fogging,” Becerra García stated.

He explained that the ovitraps are strategically placed in cool, humid locations. A piece of non-woven fabric is placed over a container filled with water, and a reading is taken there weekly.

The doctor called on the public to join in the preventive measures and to allow brigade members access to their homes to carry out larval control. These brigade members also train residents so that they can continue implementing the "Wash, Cover, Turn Over, and Throw Away" strategy.

He noted that the dengue brigade members visit homes properly identified, so it is important that residents allow them entry to perform these actions.

“If you, as a resident, suspect that the staff are actually from the health department, we have some tools to verify this immediately, such as the ‘Sin Dengue’ app. Once you download it, you can enter the code that each brigade member receives on their badge, and the photo and full name of the person visiting you will automatically appear,” added Miguel Ángel Becerra.

Citizen participation is key to preventing the proliferation of the mosquito that transmits dengue fever, since most breeding grounds are found inside homes.