Cozumel Neighborhoods Show Highest Mosquito Activity Despite Control Efforts

Cozumel, Quintana Roo — The San Miguel 1 and 2 neighborhoods in Cozumel are recording the highest levels of mosquito activity on the island, according to the latest weekly ovitrap monitoring by the vector control department. Despite ongoing cleanup campaigns, elimination of breeding sites, larval control, fumigation and door-to-door visits, the presence of the insects persists in both areas.

Hugo Pérez Rosas, head of Vector Control in Cozumel, said the ovitraps identify reproductive activity by counting eggs and help determine which zones need more intervention. “Control actions are carried out and the density decreases, but a week later it increases again. That’s why monitoring allows us to identify where to reinforce work,” he said.

The island currently has more than 45 probable cases of dengue under clinical surveillance, with three confirmed through laboratory tests. A recent suspected case in the CTM neighborhood prompted preventive measures and a health cordon by the Health Department. During the same period last year, eight positive cases had been reported.

Other neighborhoods that have reported cases at different times include San Gervasio, Adolfo López Mateos, Independencia and Emiliano Zapata, though the distribution may change as epidemiological monitoring continues.

Residents say the high mosquito presence is a growing concern. “After rains, water accumulates in different objects and that’s where the problem starts again. Yards must be kept clean, even after the brigade has passed,” said Alejandra Reyes, a resident of San Miguel 1.

Ricardo Mendoza, a resident of Emiliano Zapata, agreed. “Concern grows when there are many mosquitoes, because families have to watch for any container with water inside and outside the home. Fumigation cannot solve the problem by itself,” he said.

Officials note that high ovitrap activity does not necessarily mean a proportional increase in dengue cases. The traps measure the presence and reproduction of the mosquito vector, while disease confirmation depends on laboratory testing.