Te Marae Ora Ministry of Health is calling on the public to clean their yards and eliminate any potential mosquito breeding places.

This request comes following the continuous rain experienced by the island in the past two weeks.

Secretary of Health Bob Williams confirmed that there have been no dengue cases reported to date – since October 2022.

And to maintain zero cases, the ministry will roll out its Tutaka programme or house to house inspection on Aitutaki from April 10 to 21 followed by Mauke on April 13 and 14.

The dates for the Tutaka programme in Rarotonga will be announced later, Williams said.

The ministry says there has been heavy rain in the past few days and pockets of water around homes in the next few days will be expected.

“It is advised that mosquitoes can reach their adult stage within seven to 14 days from the time the eggs are laid in water – get rid of them before it becomes a problem.”

During the last Tutaka programme in December 2022, health officials noticed mosquito breeding and resting places, improper domestic waste disposal, old motor junks, whiteware waste and e-waste kept in properties. There were also instances of overflow of septic tanks and some houses not kept clean.