Answers to Common Questions
Below you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about mosquito control, vector-borne diseases and the services provided by the Insect Vector Control Division (IVCD).
- What can I do at home to prevent getting mosquito-borne diseases?
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Eliminate breeding sites! This is the best prevention. Turn over or dispose of all containers that can hold stagnant water (old tires, buckets, flower pot saucers, clogged gutters).
Use screens on windows and doors, wear long clothing, and apply approved mosquito repellents containing DEET or Picaridin.
- What time of day are dengue-spreading mosquitoes active?
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The Aedes aegypti mosquito (the Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya carrier) is a daytime biter, most active in the early morning (dawn) and late afternoon/dusk. You should take precautions throughout the day.
- Is Dengue transmitted from human to human?
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No. You can only get dengue from the bite of a dengue-infected mosquito.
- What should I do if I think I have Dengue?
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If you think you have Dengue, consult a doctor.
The treatment for dengue is supportive care. You must rest and stay well-hydrated. Control fever and pain using Acetaminophen (Paracetamol).
CRITICALLY: DO NOT take Aspirin, Ibuprofen, or other NSAIDs as they can increase the risk of bleeding.
- Is Trinidad and Tobago considered endemic for Malaria?
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No. Trinidad and Tobago was certified malaria-free by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1965.
However, a small number of imported cases from endemic regions are detected annually. The division maintains a robust surveillance and rapid response system to prevent local transmission.
- Where can I get Malaria tablets if I am going to a Malaria endemic country?
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Contact your nearest County Medical Office of Health.
Mosquito-Borne Diseases
- Does IVCD deal with infestations of bees, cockroaches or rodents?
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NO. IVCD does not treat infestations caused by rodents, cockroaches or bees. Our main focus is the control of mosquitoes that cause disease transmission, such as Aedes, Culex and Anopheles.
- Does IVCD deal with cleaning of clogged drains and overgrown premises?
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NO. The Regional Corporations or the County Medical Office of Health should be contacted for such complaints.
- Do I have to pay to get my premises inspected and treated by IVCD?
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Services provided by the Insect Vector Control Division are free of charge.
- How does IVCD control mosquito populations in communities?
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All vector control methods employed by IVCD are WHO approved. The main vector control methods include:
- Larviciding (application of chemical or biological agents to kill mosquito larvae before they become adults)
- Adulticiding (use of chemicals to kill adult mosquitoes)
- What chemicals are used by IVCD?
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- Aquatain – a surfactant used in perifocal operations to treat containers and articles liable to breed mosquitoes
- Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) – a biological larvicide
- Bifenthrin – a pyrethroid used in Indoor and Outdoor Residual Spraying
- Malathion – an organophosphate used in fogging and truck-mounted ULV operations
IVCD Services
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or mosquito-borne disease?