Authorities in San Martín announced on March 25 that they intervened in 20,000 homes in Moyobamba to eliminate mosquito breeding sites as part of efforts to prevent the spread of dengue. The operation was conducted by the Regional Government of San Martín and the Provincial Municipality of Moyobamba during the “I Macrorecojo de Criaderos del Zancudo que Trasmite el Dengue” campaign.
This initiative aims to reduce the population of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which are responsible for transmitting dengue. The campaign took place in Calvario, Zaragoza, Belén, and Lluyllucucha neighborhoods with support from 831 brigadiers. They removed a total of 6.25 tons of potential breeding materials such as tires, coconut shells, cacao husks, bottles, caps, cans, and other objects capable of collecting water.
The activity is part of the “Plan de Prevención y Control del Dengue 2026” launched by Peru’s Ministry of Health. Eliminating items that can hold standing water is considered crucial for reducing mosquito proliferation.
Miguel Vela, director of Ogess Alto Mayo—the local health management office—said: “We highlight the participation of citizens, National Police of Peru, EsSalud [Peruvian Social Security], micro-networks [local health centers], educational institutions, neighborhood committees and public and private entities.” He also acknowledged community involvement as essential to achieving these results.
Dengue is transmitted through bites from infected Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Common symptoms include high fever, headache, muscle and joint pain as well as pain behind the eyes; skin rashes may also occur. Warning signs include severe abdominal pain that persists over time or continuous vomiting; bleeding; drowsiness; irritability; or general fatigue.
The Ministry recommends not self-medicating if symptoms appear but instead staying hydrated and seeking immediate care at a nearby health facility. Timely medical attention helps ensure proper recovery and prevents complications.
