Context

The proposed intervention aims to address the spread of Dengue fever on Atauro Island, which is part of the state of East Timor  and located more than 20 kilometers from the capital, Dili. Specifically, the actions of this project will focus on Makili, the largest community on Atauro Island, with more than 2,700 inhabitants (300 families), and Vila Maumeta, the capital of Atauro Island, which has approximately 1,000 inhabitants and hosts the main health center for the entire island.

In Makili’s health center, 46 cases of dengue were recorded in 2022, with patients subsequently treated in Vila Maumeta. In 2022, a child also died from dengue on the island, and many severe cases had to be evacuated to the hospital in the capital, Dili, for treatment.
However, a large number of infected people d do not turn to official health facilities., and therefore are not counted in official statistics. According to local health centers, the actual number of infections each year is realistically about double the number of the reported cases. In 2023, the number of cases appears to be increasing compared to 2022. The Aedes aegypti mosquito not only creates a health problem for the residents of Makili but also threatens the vitality of potential tourism, an economic and employment source that local authorities are trying to promote.

This context and these needs were analyzed by GTV with the support of the local partner, Komunidade São José Skolapios Makili. The situation was reported by the partner to local and national health authorities; however, they have never conducted mosquito control or otherwise reduced the mosquito population. At most, the local suku ,Makili, engages in community cleaning efforts, but mosquito presence remains persistent. General training has also been provided in Vila (the island capital), but since it is generic, we consider it insufficient to address the problem, as verified by our observations.

Actions

• Mapping of Makili in relation to critical areas for Aedes aegypti proliferation
• Population training on prevention
• Disinfestation and prevention activities
• Support for local health centers
• Coordination and monitoring

Expected results:

Expected results:
- 20 people trained in mapping and monitoring critical areas for the proliferation of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes;
- at least 2,700 citizens equipped and trained in dengue fever prevention techniques for their homes and daily lives;
- all neighborhoods and houses in Makili treated and protected against the spread of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes;
- the health centers in Makili and Vila Maumeta equipped to handle dengue fever cases.

Updates

• 10.06.2025 - Together against the spread of Dengue fever
• 16.06.2025 - Training sessions on Dengue fever prevention have started!
• 10.01.2026 - The project to combat Dengue fever has been completed!

Funding bodies:

Parrocchia di S. Agata, Besenello

Regione Autonoma del Trentino Alto Adige

Comune di Besenello