Elevating Public Health Defenses: Strengthening Vector Control Capabilities in the Turks and Caicos Islands

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Wednesday, 22 November 2023: The Environmental Health Department (EHD) proudly announces a major advancement in its mission to uphold public health standards. Our dedicated officers recently completed an intensive one-week Pest and Vector Control training workshop hosted by the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) from 7^th – 10^th November 2023. This transformative training marks a crucial milestone in our ongoing commitment to enhancing vector control disease prevention throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The primary objectives of this comprehensive training were to:

1. Gain a profound understanding of pest control principles and the safe and effective use of pesticides.
2. Strengthen the capacity for the identification of mosquitoes.

3. Comprehend the principles and practices of mosquito management, surveillance, and control.

4. Acquire knowledge about the behaviour and control of bedbugs, flies, and fleas.

Commenting on the training, Honourable Shaun D. Malcolm, Minister of Health and Human Services stated, “The training sessions meticulously designed and executed, have equipped our environmental health professionals with advanced knowledge, skills and strategies essential for effective vector control. These newfound capabilities empower us to address the evolving challenges of disease-carrying vectors, ensuring a proactive and resilient response to potential health threats.” 

The Minister went on to say that together, we are forging a healthier and more robust Turks and Caicos Islands, where the health and safety of our communities remain at the forefront of our priorities.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to PAHO for their invaluable support and expertise. Dr. Brittney Jones and Dr. Eldonna Bosisson, PAHO/WHO Representatives, along with our facilitator, Ms. Camille White, Environmental Health Officer III from the Ministry of Health and Social Development BVI, played instrumental roles in delivering an exceptional training program.

Ms. Zatanya Handfield, Vector Control Coordinator, expressed her enthusiasm stating, “This pest and vector control training exercise plays a pivotal role in providing essential tools and knowledge needed to proactively address vector-related health risks. We eagerly anticipate integrating these newfound skills into our daily operations, further enhancing the capabilities of our Vector Control Unit. This training reaffirms our unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of the residents and visitors of the Turks and Caicos Islands.”

The Environmental Health Department remains steadfast in its dedication to safeguarding the public against vector-borne diseases such as Dengue, Chikungunya, and Zika in the Turks and Caicos Islands. This workshop, coupled with our ongoing collaborative initiatives with the Caribbean Public Health Agency, Pan American Health Organisation and the UK Health Security Agency, aims to fortify the Vector Control Unit in the TCI.

Photo Captions: 

Header:  Minister for Health and Human Services, Hon. Shaun Malcolm, Vector Control Training Facilitator and training group.

1st insert:  EHD staff identifying mosquito species in the TCI.

2nd insert: EHD employees conducting mosquito resistance testing