New educational toolkits are implemented in response to recent spikes in dengue and Zika

 Due to steady spread of dengue and Zika, Red Cross and Red Crescent teams in Africa, the Americas, and the Asia Pacific area are implementing new educational toolkits aimed at helping communities prevent the transmission of diseases by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes.

Dr. Julie Hall, the Health and Care Director at the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies explains how “knowledge is key to disease prevention, and prevention is the best weapon available in the battle against health threats posed by Aedes mosquitoes, including Zika, dengue, and chikungunya.”

Two teaching guides and toolkits have been developed--one designed for adults and one for children. These modules have been taught in countries long-plagued by dengue and chikungunya, as well countries more recently impacted by Zika. The learning modules emphasize transmission, symptoms, and treatment of Zika, dengue, and chikungunya. It teaches methods of preventing mosquito bites as well as ways to reduce mosquito breeding sites. Over time, Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers will integrate the toolkits into existing frameworks within local organizations and community groups.

Source: http://www.ifrc.org/en/news-and-media/press-releases/general/as-dengue-spikes-and-zika-spreads-new-educational-toolkits-are-rolled-out-to-help-communities-prevent-diseases-transmitted-by-aedes-mosquitoes/

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- Linda Shin