The Cook Islands has launched its dengue mosquito eradication programme.
Photo: AFP / Sebastian Kaulitzki / Science Photo Library
The Operation Namu mass spraying campaign got underway yesterday on Rarotonga where an outbreak of dengue was declared in February.
Spraying will continue today, weather permitting.
The Cook Islands News reported spraying would continue around Rarotonga until 11 March.
The programme targets mosquito larvae in breeding grounds of stagnant water, open drains and blocked manholes.
Te Marae Ora Health Ministry said there were 28 probable and 30 confirmed dengue-type2 cases in Rarotonga.
There are 21 cases that have been admitted to the hospital.
The worst-hit areas are Ngatangiia with 18 cases and Titikaveka with 14.
No cases have been reported on the Pa Enua, the outer islands.
Youth from 11 to 19 years have been hardest hit, with 18 confirmed and probable cases.
