[18/05/2026 01:30]

ADEN-SABA

Deputy Minister of Public Health and Population Dr. Abdullah Dahan inaugurated in Aden a broad package of health and community interventions aimed at combating dengue fever and other vector-borne diseases across eight governorates, as part of intensified preventive efforts ahead of the rainy season.

The intervention package, implemented by the National Malaria and Vector-Borne Disease Control Program in cooperation with the World Health Organization and supported by the World Bank, targets 21 districts and seeks to reduce the spread of mosquito-borne diseases through coordinated preventive measures.

The activities include fogging campaigns, elimination of mosquito breeding sites, public awareness initiatives, and training programs for doctors and female health volunteers. The plan also involves meetings with community leaders and influential local figures to strengthen public participation in disease prevention efforts.

Dr. Dahan said the initiative forms part of the ministry’s wider strategy to enhance precautionary measures against mosquito-transmitted illnesses, particularly malaria, dengue fever, and other viral fevers. He noted that vector-control programs remain a top priority due to their direct impact on public health, especially during the rainy season, when mosquito populations rise and the risk of outbreaks increases.

He stressed the importance of coordinated action between official institutions and local communities to ensure the success of the campaigns and maximize their impact across the targeted districts.

Meanwhile, Aden Health Office Director Dr. Tariq al-Shaabi said that spraying operations, awareness campaigns, and the removal of mosquito breeding sites constitute the first line of defense in curbing the spread of fevers, calling on residents to cooperate with field teams and follow public health guidance.

In a related meeting, the deputy minister held talks with a WHO delegation headed by Dr. Noha Mahmoud to discuss ongoing vector-control efforts, the current level of interventions, mechanisms to support surveillance and rapid response programs, and ways to expand technical cooperation between the ministry and the organization in prevention and training.

Dr. Dahan also reviewed training sessions being conducted for female health volunteers and was briefed on the educational programs designed to equip them with awareness messaging skills and community outreach techniques, enabling them to promote health education within targeted neighborhoods and communities.

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