In a recent interview with Diario, Luis Chong, director of Aruba’s Public Health and Environmental Management (GKMB), addressed public questions regarding fines and fumigation in neighborhoods.
Chong clarified that GKMB is authorized by law to issue fines to residents who fail to maintain clean and accessible premises, especially when it concerns mosquito breeding prevention. “The law states that people must keep their homes clean and allow our inspectors access. If someone refuses, we first issue a warning letter—but we do have the legal authority to fine,” he said.
However, he emphasized that fines are a last resort, as the department’s primary goal is to help people prevent infestations, not to punish them. “We’re not here just to hand out fines,” he said. “Yes, it’s legally possible, but our first focus is prevention.”
Chong acknowledged that opinions differ—some argue that only through fines will people learn, but he questioned whether it should have to go that far.
Regarding neighborhood fumigation, Chong made it clear that it’s only done in serious cases, such as dengue or chikungunya outbreaks. “Fumigation is drastic. It kills not just mosquitoes but other beneficial insects like bees,” he explained.
Most importantly, Chong stressed: “There’s no point in spraying if residents aren’t doing their part to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds.” Cooperation is essential to effectively combat mosquito-borne diseases.
