The Health Ministry has confirmed a new death from Dengue Fever, bringing the national total to five laboratory confirmed deaths.
In the Ministry’s most recent epidemiological update and advisory, issued earlier today, the ministry also notes there are 450 laboratory confirmed cases of Dengue Fever at present.Health Minister Terrance Deyalsingh issued his own statement on the matter in a voice note.
“As we record our fifth laboratory confirmed dengue related death, I take the opportunity to inform the public that all state agencies continue to work collaboratively to reduce the mosquito population, as far as possible,” the Health Minister said.
“The public is reminded of the vital role to be played in clearing all possible sources where clean, clear, standing water exists in their homes and properties,” he noted, “which is where the mosquito can live and breed.”
“Let’s continue to work together to reduce the incidence of dengue,” Minister Deyalsingh encouraged the public in his voice-note.
The Health Ministry continues to remind the public that dengue fever symptoms appear within 5-6 days of being bitten, and last for 1-2 weeks.
It urges anyone showing signs or symptoms of Dengue Fever to seek immediate medical treatment at their doctor or the nearest Health Facility.
According to the Health Ministry, the signs and symptoms to look out for include:
● Fever
● Headaches (sometimes severe)
● Pain behind eyes
● Muscle and joint pains
● Skin rash
● Nausea / Vomiting
● Diarrhoea
The Health Ministry also is reminding the public to do as much as possible to reduce the spread of dengue by making it difficult for the Aedes Aegypti mosquito to find breeding grounds.
The public is urged to:
1. Dispose of all unwanted articles, derelict vehicles or appliances in the yard or environs which can collect water and become mosquito breeding grounds.
2. Cover water containers such as tanks, barrels, drums or buckets with a mosquito proof covering.
3. Cut down and remove all bush or undergrowth that can harbour mosquitoes.
4. Clean drains and guttering to allow for the free flow of water.
5. Use mosquito nets and insect repellent, when appropriate as a means of personal protection.
