Mosquito traps vs dengue introduced in Lapu

AFTER finding out the effectiveness of an ova/larval trap in schools of Lapu-Lapu City a month ago, the device is now being introduced to all barangays to prevent dengue cases.

The trap is made of a tin can painted with black and poured with a chemical called “abate,” which is available in drugstores.

“Mosquitoes easily become attracted to dark colors, thus, tin cans were painted black. These cans were placed in dark areas where mosquitos usually hide and find stagnant water where they can drop their eggs,” said city health officer Dr. Rodulfo Berame.

The ova/larval trap is a joint project of Lapu-Lapu and the Department of Education. At least four tin cans are placed in every classroom and the eggs of mosquitoes that dropped in the cans will be counted.

Dr. Berame said the chemical will kill the eggs and mosquitos.

“The project would cost the city government about P2 million to buy the chemical. This shows that the city is serious in fighting dengue,” Berame said.

When asked how effective the project was, he replied, “Around 95 to 100 percent.”

Dr. Berame learned the idea from the the Department of Science and Technology in their conference.

Mayor Paz Radaza lauded Berame for initiating the project in schools and urged her constituents to unite with them in the fight against dengue.  CORRESPONDENT NORMAN V. MENDOZA