Reports from the Ministry of Health indicate that the number of cases of dengue in Dominica is increasing.
According to the latest information from the ministry, there are now 13 confirmed cases of dengue on the island. The latest numbers show that there were 7 confirmed cases last week, increasing the number of reported cases by 6.
Most of the confirmed cases are from the Roseau Health District. However, cases have also been reported from the Health Districts of Grand Bay, LaPlaine, and Castle Bruce.
To date there have been no reported severe cases of the disease or deaths from Dengue Fever.
In 2012 there were 20 confirmed cases of Dengue between the period of March to October on the island. In August of 2011 there were 15 confirmed cases mainly around Roseau and the Mahaut area.
Dengue is an infectious disease caused by a virus transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. People get the dengue virus from the bite of an infected mosquito and it is not transmitted from person to person. It is often refered to as “Break Bone Fever” which can become a serious public health problem.
The symptoms include high fever, intense headaches, severe joint and muscle pain, vomiting and a rash.
Persons presenting with signs or symptoms of dengue fever should seek immediate attention at the nearest health centre or contact their personal doctor.
The Ministry of Health is calling on the public to assist in their drive to eliminate the Aedes aegypti mosquito by frequently checking and removing stagnant water in your premises; by keeping your environment clean; covering all containers capable of holding water – (drums, cisterns, barrels and tanks); by keeping potted plants in wet soil and sand; by getting rid of all old tires which may be used to landscape or grow vegetables.
The public is also asked to protect themselves from mosquito bites by using a mosquito repellent and mosquito nets when sleeping.
In its attempt to control the outbreak of this virus the Ministry of Health has stepped up its activities by fogging, (using non-toxic chemicals to destroy the mosquito larvae), conducting households inspections, holding educational sessions in the various health districts and media campaign.
