BEGINNING today, the Vector Control Services of the Ministry of Health will be conducting aggressive malaria outreaches throughout the Potaro/Siparuni, Mahdia/ Potaro, and North and South Pakaraima areas of Region 8. This was disclosed by Head of the Vector Control Services and the Malaria Unit of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Reyaud Rahaman, who noted that this approach was necessary to combat malaria and decrease its prevalence in Region 8.

The primary objective of the outreaches is to reduce malaria transmission in affected populations in Region 8, and thereby lead to improved quality of life for people of the affected localities. Dr. Rahaman said this approach has been very successful in controlling malaria in the communities.

Asked about malaria patients not completing their treatment regimen, Dr Rehman said, “It’s still a problem for us, but we have seen some improvement, and will continue to host educational workshops to tell persons about the importance of completing their malaria treatment.”

Areas that the team would be visiting include: Red Hole, Red and White Hole, Konawaruk, Noitgedacht, Campbelltown, Princeville, St. Elizabeth, Marabunta, White Hole, Quintette, S-Bend, Seven Mls. Mahdia, Stone Creek, Tiger Creek, St. Lucia Backdam and Jumbie Creek.

Dr. Rahaman said some areas that have reported outbreaks of malaria are: Siparuni River, with 60 cases; Tiger Falls, with 49 cases; Tumatumari, with 34 cases; Turtle Creek, with 39 cases; Ewang River, with 45 cases, and Water Dog, with 19 cases.

Among the tasks the teams are assigned are to: collect blood samples and to examine, diagnose, and dispense treatment; conduct village meetings; spray mining camps and fog villages, among other tasks.

Dr. Rahaman applauded the team members going out on these outreaches, noting that their tasks are not easy, especially with the travelling and some of the environmental problems that they would confront.