Despite some minor exceptions, the Tutaka programme inspections in Rarotonga have generally found well-maintained households and no major health issues have been identified so far.

Te Marae Ora (TMO) Ministry of Health launched the 2025 Tutaka programme on Monday with Takuvaine/Tutakimoa constituency followed by Avatiu/Ruatonga on Tuesday and Nikao/Panama yesterday.

This programme was initiated following the spread of contagious diseases such as helminthiasis, typhoid, cholera, filariasis, dengue fever and tuberculosis.

According to Murai Herman, Te Marae Ora’s health protection manager, the Tutaka team’s recent inspections found that most households maintained clean and tidy yards.

However, there were a few exceptions where some lawns were not mowed.

“No major issues have been identified.” Herman said. Pigs are well maintained; hedges are kept at reasonable height and containers holding water had been emptied to prevent mosquito breeding.

“Overall, the Tutaka inspections have been excellent for those who made the effort to clean up. A few properties require follow-ups due to unaddressed concerns. These will be addressed as the inspections continue.”

The Tutaka programme aims to minimise the risk of health issues and ensure the safety of Cook Islanders. Poor hygiene/sanitation, mosquito breeding, unclean yards and overcrowded households all contribute to the risk of harmful diseases.

According to Te Marae Ora, the programme also helps ensure a healthy and safe environment for our communities.

The health protection officers, public health nurses and members of the Cook Islands Child Welfare Association all have roles in the Tutaka to check households for any issues that contributes to health risks.

The inspectors ensure that all properties are checked for any unhygienic concerns to avoid the risk of infections. They also promote cleanliness to ensure properties are safe, healthy and at an acceptable living standard for households.

The Public Health Tutaka team, according to Herman, gathers each morning at 8 am to debrief and review the previous day’s inspections.

Once the debrief session is over, the teams head out at around 8:30am to their designated area and begin their inspections at 9am.

There are four Tutaka teams. Team one is to inspect the main road leading to the beach. The second team is to inspect the main road leading to the centre of the back roads. The third team inspects the centre of the middle area leading to the back roads, and the last team inspects the hillsides These teams start at one end of their assigned areas and make their way through to the other end.

Inspections end depending on the area covered, usually around 1pm to 1:30pm, however, for small areas like Takuvaine (TKV), inspections usually end at 12 noon.

Today, the Tutaka team will inspect the Ruaau area, followed by Akaoa tomorrow. Next week, they will continue their inspections in Murienua on Monday, proceeding through the villages and ending in Tupapa/Maraerenga on April 4, 2025.

From April 7 to April 17, 2025, starting at 9am, another Tutaka will be held in Aitutaki, with all villages being inspected in the same manner as Rarotonga.

Follow these important steps to maintain a clean and pest-free home:

1. Eliminate mosquito breeding sites – Remove standing water and clear areas where mosquitoes can rest.

2. Keep pigs away from homes – Maintain a safe distance between pig enclosures and living areas.

3. Maintain clean food preparation areas – Always keep kitchens and cooking spaces hygienic.

4. Clear overgrown vegetation – Trim and remove excess plants around your home to prevent pests.

5. Keep homes clean and hygienic – Regular cleaning helps prevent disease and promotes a healthy living space.

6. Control unwanted pests – Take steps to keep insects and rodents away from your home.