Community Mobilizes to Combat Dengue Threat

In a proactive move mirroring strategies that could be adopted in U.S. communities facing similar threats, the indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and local Puskesmas (community health centers) launched an intensive fogging campaign in densely populated areas of Surabaya. This coordinated effort aims to curb the spread of dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF), a mosquito-borne illness that poses a critically important threat, especially during the rainy season.

On Sunday, March 23, 2025, babinsa Kelurahan Banyu Urip Koramil 0830/14 Sawahan Sertu Lukman Setiawan, alongside representatives from the Banyu Urip Health Center, Chairman of RT 07 RW 04, and Surabaya Cadre (KSH) RW 04 Surabaya, spearheaded a fogging operation on Jalan Banyu Urip Kidul 2 RT 07 RW 04, Kelurahan Banyu Urip, Sawahan District. This targeted approach reflects a commitment to protecting vulnerable communities from the debilitating effects of dengue fever.

Fogging as a Key Preventive Measure

Fogging, also known as fumigation, is a crucial intervention strategy in controlling the spread of dengue fever. It works by eliminating adult mosquitoes, specifically the aedes aegypti mosquito, which serves as the primary vector for transmitting the dengue virus. These mosquitoes thrive in urban environments, breeding in stagnant water.

Dr. Aisyah Putri, a leading expert in infectious disease control, explains, “Fogging, or fumigation, is a method that involves spraying insecticides into the air to kill adult mosquitoes. It acts as a rapid response to reduce the mosquito population, thereby interrupting the transmission of the dengue virus.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the U.S. also recognizes fogging as a potential tool in controlling mosquito populations and preventing the spread of diseases like Zika and West Nile virus. However, the CDC emphasizes the importance of using EPA-approved insecticides and following strict safety guidelines.

Community Voices and Collaborative Action

The success of the Surabaya fogging campaign hinges on the active participation of community members. Residents are encouraged to report potential mosquito breeding sites and to cooperate with health officials during fogging operations. This collaborative approach ensures that the intervention is targeted and effective.

One resident of Banyu Urip noted,”We appreciate the efforts of the TNI and the Puskesmas in protecting our community from dengue. We are doing our part by cleaning up our yards and eliminating standing water.”

This sentiment echoes the importance of community involvement in public health initiatives, a principle that applies equally well in the United States. When communities are informed and engaged, public health interventions are more likely to succeed.

Education and Awareness: Empowering the Community

Beyond fogging, education and awareness campaigns play a vital role in dengue prevention. The Surabaya community is actively promoting the “3M Plus” approach, a simple yet effective strategy for reducing mosquito breeding sites.

Dr. Putri elaborates on the “3M Plus” approach: “The ‘3M Plus’ approach—menguras (draining),Menutup (closing),and Mendaur Ulang (recycling),with the ‘Plus’ representing additional preventative measures—is a great example.”

This translates to:

• Draining (Menguras): Regularly emptying and cleaning containers that can hold water, such as flower pots, tires, and buckets.
• Closing (Menutup): Covering water storage containers tightly to prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs.
• Recycling (mendaur Ulang): Properly disposing of items that can collect water, such as plastic containers and old tires.

The “plus” includes using mosquito repellent, wearing protective clothing, and installing mosquito screens, which are all good practices.

These practices are directly applicable to U.S. households and communities, particularly in regions with warm climates and mosquito-borne disease risks.Simple actions like emptying bird baths and cleaning gutters can considerably reduce mosquito populations around homes.

looking Ahead: Sustained Vigilance and Proactive Measures

The Surabaya community’s fight against dengue fever is an ongoing effort. Sustained vigilance and proactive measures are essential to prevent future outbreaks. This includes continuous monitoring of mosquito populations, regular fogging campaigns, and ongoing education and awareness initiatives.

Dr.Putri emphasizes the importance of community participation: “Community participation is absolutely crucial.” she also recommends:

• Awareness and Education: Regular health campaigns, community meetings, and educational materials. This includes emphasizing the importance of recognizing dengue symptoms and seeking early medical attention.
• Surveillance: Encourage residents to report any suspected dengue cases or potential mosquito breeding sites to local health officials.
• Collaboration: Collaborate with local authorities and organizations to support fogging efforts and other preventative measures.

These strategies can be adapted and implemented in U.S. communities to address mosquito-borne disease risks. Local health departments can play a key role in providing education, conducting surveillance, and coordinating control efforts.

Dengue Fever in the U.S.: A Growing Concern

While dengue fever is more prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, it is becoming an increasing concern in the United States, particularly in areas like florida, Texas, and Hawaii.Travelers returning from dengue-endemic countries can introduce the virus, and local mosquito populations can then transmit it to others.

According to the CDC, there have been locally acquired cases of dengue fever reported in the U.S.in recent years. This highlights the need for increased awareness, prevention, and control efforts to protect public health.

The strategies being implemented in surabaya, such as fogging and community engagement, offer valuable lessons for U.S. communities facing similar challenges.

Recent Developments in Dengue Prevention

In addition to traditional methods like fogging and mosquito control, there are several promising new developments in dengue prevention. These include:

• Dengue Vaccines: Several dengue vaccines are now available, offering protection against the disease. The CDC recommends vaccination for certain individuals living in or traveling to dengue-endemic areas.
• Wolbachia Mosquito Control: this innovative approach involves releasing mosquitoes infected with the Wolbachia bacteria, which prevents them from transmitting the dengue virus.
• Improved Diagnostics: New and improved diagnostic tests are available to detect dengue fever early, allowing for prompt treatment and preventing further spread of the disease.

These advancements offer hope for more effective dengue prevention and control in the future. Continued research and advancement are essential to combat this global health threat.