SVG in Dengue alert after outbreak in Jamaica

Health officials here are wary of a dengue outbreak, and have cautioned citizens to be vigilant, saying that conditions in St Vincent and the Grenadines are conducive to a dengue outbreak.{{more}}

Minster of Health Dr Douglas Slater said that once an outbreak starts in the region, as it has, the other countries need to be on guard.

“There is a threat of a dengue outbreak. It is already in the region, and we have the conditions…it can happen here,” Dr Slater said at a press conference on Tuesday.

Dr Slater said that about three weeks ago, he was informed of an outbreak in Puerto Rico and Jamaica, and has already put this country’s public health division on guard.

“We have an ongoing campaign, but I have advised them to step up,” said Dr Slater.

He warned that the aedes aegypti mosquito, which can host the dengue fever and transmit it to humans, is present in St Vincent and the Grenadines, making the country a prime target, if the proper precautions are not taken.

“I advise all citizens to do their part,” Dr Slater said.

The health minister said that he is also aware of a Malaria outbreak that is threatening some parts of the region. However, he said that Malaria is not as worrisome to St Vincent and the Grenadines.

“Malaria is not endemic in St Vincent and the Grenadines,” Dr Slater said.

He, however, said that the plan of action used by the public health division to combat Dengue Fever can be effective against Malaria, if the problem shows itself.