PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) — Trinidad and Tobago is grappling with a severe dengue outbreak, having recorded its 13th dengue-related death this year. Health authorities reported on Friday that the number of confirmed dengue cases has now surpassed 1,300.
The Ministry of Health issued a statement revealing that as of September 5, there are 1,315 confirmed dengue fever cases across the nation. In response to the escalating situation, health officials have issued 914 yellow fever notices, urging property owners and occupiers to clean their surroundings and eliminate mosquito breeding sites.
The ministry also mentioned that legal actions may be pursued against 43 property owners who have failed to adhere to these directives. The public is being reminded that dengue is transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes Aegypti mosquito, which is also known to spread other viruses such as Zika and chikungunya.
The first dengue-related fatality occurred on June 19 when a 65-year-old individual succumbed to the virus. Since then, the toll has steadily risen, causing alarm among health officials and the general populace.
The Ministry of Health has emphasized the importance of recognizing the symptoms associated with dengue fever, which typically appear within five to six days after being bitten and can last for one to two weeks. These symptoms include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Pain behind the eyes
- Muscle and joint pains
- Skin rash
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Individuals exhibiting any of these symptoms should seek immediate medical treatment to prevent complications and further spread of the virus.
The Ministry continues to advocate for public cooperation in mitigating the health crisis by maintaining clean environments to curb the mosquito population. In the face of this public health challenge, community efforts are seen as pivotal in combating the spread of dengue fever in Trinidad and Tobago.
