– says First Lady Madame Deolatchmee Ramotar in World Health Day 2014 message

World Health Day this year is being observed today (April 7). The focus for this year’s observances is on the control of the spread of vector borne diseases. And on the occasion, Guyana’s First Lady Madame Deolatchmee Ramotar says she wishes to join with all those who are using the occasion of World Health Day to call attention to the incidence of vector-borne diseases and

to use this opportunity to support the many global, regional and local initiatives that are being taken to address the spread of these diseases.
She noted that Guyana has had experience with these diseases and has made considerable strides in reducing the incidence and deaths associated with vector-borne diseases such as malaria, lymphatic filariasis and dengue fever. “Much more, however, remains to be done to eradicate these and other vector-borne diseases,” the First Lady declared.
“We as citizens of Guyana can play our part in the global campaign to arrest the spread of these diseases. We can contribute to this thrust by following the advice of the World Health Organization (WHO) and our local health authorities,” she said.
“Specifically, we can help by ensuring that our surroundings are kept clean, reducing the breeding sites for mosquitoes near our homes by covering water storage containers, eliminating stagnant sources of water, properly disposing of unusual containers, and properly disposing of garbage,” Mrs Ramotar stated.
She said not only will these assist in helping to reduce the transmission of vector-borne diseases but they will also improve the personal health and hygiene of citizens.
Happy Word Health Day 2014!