The Ministry of Health has reported 511 confirmed cases of Dengue Fever so far this year, compared to 169 confirmed cases for the same period in 2012. Overall, there were 431 confirmed cases of Dengue Fever for 2012.
One death from Dengue Fever was recorded in May this year, while a recent death is being investigated, health officials reported.
The Ministry of Health has advised persons who are experiencing symptoms of Dengue Fever, including sudden high fever, severe headaches, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain to seek medical attention. In addition, patients with the following symptoms: bleeding, rash, abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, lethargy, restlessness, clammy skin, or loss of consciousness will require immediate medical attention.
The public is asked to remember that breeding of the Aedes aegypti mosquito may occur where water settles. As a result, householders are strongly encouraged to check their premises on a weekly basis to eliminate conditions which promote mosquito breeding and encourage the spread of Dengue Fever.
This includes checking roof guttering, plant pots, disposed tyres, garbage cans, discarded appliances and plastic containers for water collection; as well as septic tanks, underground and above ground water storage systems.
Members of the public are reminded that it is against the law to be found to be breeding mosquitoes on their premises.