Roadtown, Tortola -The Ministry of Health and Social Development is acting to control the spread of dengue fever following an increase of new cases in the Territory during the last five weeks.
Chief Medical Officer Dr. Irad Potter said eight positive cases were diagnosed between June 1 and July 7. Six females and two males between the ages of seven and 35 were affected. “The public is advised to take protective measures to prevent themselves or family members from contracting the disease,” Dr. Potter said.
The Chief Medical Officer noted that it is important for medical attention to be sought as soon as signs and symptoms of dengue fever are evident. General symptoms include fever, frontal headache, pain behind the eyes (also known as retro-orbital pain), and muscle and joint pain. Some persons may develop a rash.
Dr. Potter is encouraging residents to take basic measures to help limit the breeding of aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which spread the dengue virus.
Residents are reminded that mosquitoes may breed in stagnant water. The Chief Medical Officer also advised that wet flower pots should be replaced with dirt where possible or that containers should be cleaned and scrubbed regularly.
Cisterns should also be covered and outlets screened, while downspouts should be covered with mosquito netting or other suitable covering.
The Chief Medical Officer has also called on residents to ensure the proper disposal of items such as old tires or receptacles that can gather water, and create the ideal environment for the aedes aegypti mosquito to multiply.
Dengue fever and dengue hemorrhagic fever are acute febrile diseases, found in the tropics, and caused by four closely related virus serotypes of the genus Flavivirus, family Flaviviridae. The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that two fifths of the world's population is now at risk from dengue. The WHO also estimates that there may be 50 million cases of dengue infection worldwide every year.
Residents may contact the Health Surveillance Officer Ms. Athelene Linton, at the Ministry of Health and Social Development, with additional questions or queries. Ms. Linton may be reached on 494-3701 extension 2168.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development aspires to provide leadership that promotes health, social wellbeing, and a safe environment as positive resources for living and sustainable development of the Virgin Islands (UK).
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