Health Minister Dr Lackram Bodoe says anyone showing symptoms of dengue fever should seek immediate medical treatment at a doctor or the nearest health facility.
The minister told the Express yesterday that there is no overcrowding of hospitals with dengue cases, and he urged people not to self-medicate at home but to seek medical care if they experience dengue symptoms.
He said he will be meeting with the Insect Vector Control Division today to get an update on data and other information with respect to dengue.
In a release earlier yesterday, the Ministry stated that while there has been no increase in people presenting with dengue fever to Accident and Emergency departments across Trinidad and Tobago, enhanced surveillance activities by the Insect Vector Control Division, the Epidemiology Unit and satellite surveillance units within the community are ongoing.
This is consistent with the ministry’s wider established protocols utilised for the prevention, control, and constant monitoring of mosquito-borne diseases.
Signs and symptoms
Dengue fever may be spread by the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito.
Symptoms appear within 5–6 days of being bitten, last for 1–2 weeks, and can include:
• Fever
• Headaches (sometimes severe)
• Pain behind eyes
• Muscle and joint pains
• Skin rash
• Nausea/vomiting
• Diarrhoea
Source Reduction Tips:
The Ministry of Health further advised citizens that the best means of reducing the incidence of mosquito-borne diseases is through the elimination of the breeding sites of the Aedes species mosquito. 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.
People wishing to contact the Insect Vector Control Division (IVCD) for vector control measures can call 612-4823 ext 5456/5402.
