Villages in Samoa have been asked to remove fala (bromeliads), a decorative plant known to collect water and contribute to the spread of dengue fever.
The call comes as the country continues to battle a rise in dengue cases, particularly among children, with several patients currently hospitalized at the Tupua Tamasese Meaole Hospital in Moto’otua.
Samoa Observer reports the Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development Assistant Chief Executive Officer (ACEO) Aufa’i Alan Aiolupotea said bromeliads, although attractive, have become a serious concern.
“These plants are beautiful to look at, but they have a serious impact,” said Aufa’i.
The public has also been asked to get rid of used car tires, which are commonly used to decorate home gardens and front yards.
Schools around the country are closed as communities in cleanup efforts to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds.
Several villages across the country have already responded by organizing clean-up campaigns and encouraging residents to monitor their homes and surroundings for potential mosquito breeding grounds.
