Be Proactive – Take Steps To Prevent Dengue

The Ministry of Health is urging the public to be proactive in protecting themselves from dengue fever.

Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh, said that there has been a massive rise in dengue cases in the Americas with the arrival of the Rainy Season. He stressed that the best preventative measure is “source reduction,” which involves checking and cleaning our internal and external surroundings for possible mosquito breeding grounds. Minister Deyalsingh is suggesting those most at risk wear long sleeves at dusk and dawn, sleep below a net, and use insect repellents.

And if you do contract dengue fever, the Registrar of the Insect Vector and Control Division, Dr. Pedram Lalla, offered recommendations for treatment. Dr. Lalla added that those with more serious symptoms like severe abdominal pain and bleeding through the gums and nose, in addition to the expected headache, fever, nausea, and skin rash, should seek immediate medical assistance.

Both Minister Deyalsingh and Dr. Lalla stressed that mosquito eggs can remain viable for up to a year, and advised if you must have water receptacles indoors or outdoors to cover them with mesh and scrub smaller items, like vases, once a week before replacing the water.

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