The BVI Environmental Health Division seeks to strengthen measures to prevent and respond to mosquito borne diseases.

This initiative is being done in collaboration with the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) under the 11^th European Development Fund (EDF) Programme for Health Systems Strengthening for Prevention and Response to outbreaks of Zika and other Mosquito-Borne Diseases in the Caribbean.

As part of the project, a workshop to assist in the implementation and monitoring of Integrated Vector Management (IVM) Strategies is being held this week from February 17 to 21.

Facilitators are Mr. Rajesh Ragoo, Senior Technical Officer, Vector Borne Disease Unit, CAPHA and Ms. Jenna Indarsingh, Laboratory Technologist, Vector Borne Disease Unit, CARPHA.

Chief Environmental Health Officer, Mr. Lionel Michael thanked the facilitators, mentioning that the importance of vector control and building capacity in officers will benefit the overall Territory. 

During the week, officers will review the existing and potential entomology laboratory facilities; be trained in entomological laboratory techniques associated with the collection and data management; and develop and implement feedback mechanism for entomogical indices and vector control field operations.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development aspires to provide a caring and integrated system of health and social services that facilitates the recovery of human development and quality of life in the British Virgin Islands.

Photographs are attached.

Photo Caption 1 of 2: Environmental Health Division during the implementation and monitoring of Integrated Vector Management (IVM) Strategies Workshop. (Photo credit: Ronnielle Frazer/GIS)

Photo Caption 2 of 2: Environmental Health Division during the implementation and monitoring of Integrated Vector Management (IVM) Strategies Workshop. (Photo credit: Ronnielle Frazer/GIS)