Authorities from the Ministry of Public Health (MSP) led a major health campaign in Durán, Ecuador, to combat dengue and promote prevention measures. The initiative took place in sectors 5 and 6 of Los Helechos, with the participation of Lucy Baldeón, Vice Minister of Health Governance, Andrés Carrazco, Undersecretary of Surveillance, and zonal coordinators for zones 5 and 8.
Twenty health teams visited 960 homes across 48 blocks to conduct larval control through abatement, destroy mosquito breeding sites, educate residents about dengue prevention methods, and carry out fumigation. Insecticide-treated nets were also distributed to priority groups.
During home visits, authorities shared key recommendations with residents to prevent the spread of mosquitoes that transmit dengue. These included cleaning water tanks thoroughly, keeping containers covered, avoiding trash accumulation, and removing unused items that can collect water.
Other organizations supported the campaign. The Municipality of Durán assisted with brush clearing, rodent control, distributing sacks for waste collection, and removing debris. The Red Cross provided 80 bottles of chlorine and offered guidance on proper use for water disinfection.
As part of an integrated approach to public health in the area, fixed and mobile vaccination teams administered routine immunizations as well as vaccines against influenza and measles to children and adults.
Local Health Committees from Durán and various sectors in Guayaquil joined the effort. Security during the operation was provided by the Armed Forces and National Police.
Lucy Baldeón emphasized community involvement: “This is a joint effort with the community. This campaign must be carried out by everyone to prevent infectious diseases. During this season mosquitoes proliferate; that’s why it is important to prevent before diseases appear. Health begins in the community, in the neighborhood and among neighbors.”
Patricia L., a local resident who received a visit from health workers at her home said: “I am very grateful to the Ministry of Public Health because they visited my house and explained how I should eliminate mosquito breeding sites. Even a bottle cap can become a site for dengue mosquitoes. They also vaccinated my family against influenza.”
These activities are part of Ecuador’s National Plan for Dengue Prevention and Control coordinated by the Ministry of Public Health to strengthen comprehensive prevention efforts against vector-borne diseases nationwide.
