The Ministry of Health has confirmed that the viral serotypes detected during the current outbreak of dengue fever in Barbados are types One and Four.

Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Joy St. John explained that there are four serotypes which cause dengue and noted that outbreaks of dengue fever generally occur when a population is exposed to a viral serotype that may not have been circulating in recent times.

In the Caribbean, during the outbreak of dengue fever in 2007, types Two, Three and Four were the serotypes detected. Type One has been detected in six other Caribbean countries this year.??

Dr. St. John reminded all householders of the need to conduct routine inspections of their premises at least once weekly, ensuring that any potential mosquito breeding sites are eliminated or appropriately treated with oil or insecticide.

Noting that the Aedes aegypti mosquito does not usually fly far from its breeding site, she urged persons detecting increased mosquito presence to be particularly vigilant. Individuals should first carefully check their own premises, also looking in places that may not be immediately apparent, such as water storage tanks, toilet bowls and tanks in bathrooms that are infrequently used, drip trays under refrigerators, and the brick work of properties under construction.

The senior health official also reminded members of the public that mosquito breeding is illegal in Barbados and that persons found guilty of deliberately contravening this section of the Health Services Act are liable to fines of up to $5,000 or 12 months imprisonment.

So far this year, there have been 154 confirmed cases of dengue fever and two deaths attributed to dengue haemorrhagic fever.??jgill@barbados.gov.bb

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