16 facing legal action as lab-confirmed dengue cases surge to 911

The Ministry of Health is reporting there are now 911 laboratory confirmed cases of Dengue Fever within the country, while the number of lab-confirmed deaths remains steady at eight.

In the Ministry’s most recent epidemiological update and advisory, issued earlier today, it also reports that as of August 21, 2024, a total of 503 yellow fever notices have been issued to property owners/occupiers, directing them to clean up their surroundings.

“Of this, 16 property owners/occupiers have, thus far been identified for the consideration/institution of legal proceedings for non-compliance,” the Ministry revealed.

The Health Ministry is urging 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.  It advises citizens 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.

The Health Ministry also is reminding 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

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