Yucatán Trains Over 300 Health Workers to Combat Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya

Mérida, Yucatán — More than 300 health workers from the Yucatán Health Department (SSY) have completed a training program aimed at strengthening prevention and control of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue, Zika, and chikungunya.

The training, part of a state government strategy led by Governor Joaquín Díaz Mena, focused on updating technical and operational skills to improve community-level prevention and reduce health risks.

The course, titled “Strengthening Capacities in Entomological Surveillance and Operational Control of Medically Important Vectors,” was designed for vector program personnel from the state’s three health jurisdictions.

Sessions were held in person at three locations: Ticul on April 27 (Jurisdiction 3), Valladolid on April 28 (Jurisdiction 2), and Mérida on April 29 (Jurisdiction 1).

The SSY said the activity was coordinated by the State Vector Program, together with the health jurisdictions and with support from the local union section, to update staff and unify field work criteria.

The course helped strengthen skills and update knowledge according to current operational guidelines, with an emphasis on improving response to health risks and reducing the presence of disease-transmitting mosquitoes.

Training was provided by specialists from the Yucatán Entomological Research and Bioassay Unit and the Collaborative Unit for Entomological Bioassays of the Autonomous University of Yucatán, including Gabriela González Olvera, Juan Navarrete Carballo, Carlos Arisqueta Chablé, and Wilbert Bibiano Marín.

Topics covered included the use of ovitraps, identification of mosquito vectors, larval control, proper use of larvicides, and nebulization and insecticide techniques — tools needed to improve prevention actions in communities.

With this training, the SSY aims to improve mosquito surveillance and control across the state, strengthen the work of operational staff, and protect the health of Yucatán families.