The Regional Health Directorate (Diresa) Ucayali announced on April 13 the removal of more than 11 tons of potential mosquito breeding sites in Tushmo, a town in the district of Yarinacocha. The effort is part of ongoing actions to prevent the spread of dengue fever.
The campaign is carried out under the “2026 Dengue Prevention and Control Plan” introduced by the Ministry of Health. Diresa Ucayali has been conducting campaigns to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds and running intensive vector control operations at the same time.
This intervention was made possible through coordinated work between health sector officials, the Federico Basadre Health Network, local authorities, and active participation from residents. Community members helped collect and dispose of items such as coconut shells, bottles, old tires, pots, toys, and other containers that can hold rainwater.
Health officials say that dengue is transmitted by bites from Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Common symptoms include high fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, pain behind the eyes, and skin rashes. Warning signs include severe abdominal pain that does not go away, persistent vomiting, bleeding symptoms, drowsiness or irritability, and general weakness.
The Ministry recommends people with these symptoms avoid self-medicating. Instead they should stay hydrated and seek care at their nearest health facility for timely treatment to ensure proper recovery and prevent complications.
