THERE have been three deaths due to dengue and currently 303 laboratory cases.
This was confirmed in an epidemiological update by the Ministry of Health on Wednesday.
It reminded the public that dengue fever may be spread by the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito. Symptoms appear within five to six days of being bitten, last for one to two weeks and can include:
- Fever;
- Headaches (sometimes severe);
- Pain behind eyes;
- Muscle and joint pains;
- Skin rash;
- Nausea/Vomiting; and
- Diarrhoea
The ministry also outlined source reduction tips:
- Dispose of all unwanted articles, derelict vehicles or appliances in the yard or environs which can collect water and become mosquito breeding grounds;
- Cover water containers such as tanks, barrels, drums or buckets with a mosquito proof covering;
- Cut down and remove all bush or undergrowth that can harbour mosquitoes;
- Clean drains and guttering to allow for the free flow of water; and
- Use mosquito nets and insect repellent, when appropriate as a means of personal protection
