Dengue fever cases present in St Vincent and the Grenadines
Vincentians have been advised to take all the necessary precautions to protect themselves and those against greater risk from dengue fever as cases have been recorded on the island.
The Ministry of Health says from January to September 21, 2023, the Epidemiology Unit recorded 15 cases of dengue fever.
The ministry says this number of cases is within the threshold expected. There have been no reported deaths due to dengue recorded to date.
Dengue Fever is a mosquito-borne illness caused by the bite of a mosquito carrying the virus that causes dengue.
Persons are encouraged to seek care early from their healthcare provider if they are experiencing:
1. Fever accompanied with nausea
2. Vomiting
- Skin rash
4. Body aches and pains (eye pain, typically behind the eyes, muscle, joint, or bone pain)
- Swollen glands
- Headache Persons should also consider the warning signs of severe dengue fever.
These signs usually begin on the first day or two after the fever goes away, and may include:
- Severe stomach pain
- Persistent vomiting
- Bleeding from the gums or nose
- Blood in the urine, stools or vomit
- Bleeding under the skin, which might look like bruising
- Difficult or rapid breathing Testing for Dengue Fever, Zika and Chikungunya is available in St Vincent and the Grenadines for free at government health facilities.
The Ministry of Health reminds us that the best protection against dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases is to reduce the breeding of mosquitoes by keeping your surroundings clean and clear of possible breeding sites.
The Ministry says it will continue to monitor Dengue Fever closely locally and regionally and will update the public accordingly.
0 Comment