Dengue Fever cases within threshold – Ministry of Health

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment wishes to encourage persons to take all the necessary precautions to continue to protect themselves and those at greater risk from Dengue Fever, such as children and persons with pre-existing conditions.

For the period of January to September 21, 2023, the Epidemiology Unit of the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment has recorded a total of 15 cases of dengue fever.

This number of cases is within the threshold expected. There have been no reported deaths due to dengue recorded to date. Dengue Fever is a mosquito- borne illness that is caused by the bite of a mosquito carrying the virus that causes dengue. Persons are encouraged to seek care early from their health care provider if they are experiencing:

1. Fever accompanied with nausea
2. Vomiting
3. Skin rash
4. Body aches and pains (eye pain, typically behind the eyes, muscle, joint, or bone pain)
5. Swollen glands
6. Headache
Persons should also pay attention to the warning signs of severe dengue fever. These signs usually begin on the first day or two after the fever goes away, and may include:
1. Severe stomach pain
2. Persistent vomiting
3. Bleeding from the gums or nose
4. Blood in the urine, stools or vomit
5. Bleeding under the skin, which might look like bruising
6. Difficult or rapid breathing

Testing for Dengue Fever, Zika and Chikungunya is available in St Vincent and the Grenadines for free at government health facilities. The Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment reminds that the best protection against dengue and other mosquito borne diseases is to reduce the breeding of mosquitoes by keeping your surroundings clean and clear of possible breeding sites.

The Ministry will continue to monitor Dengue Fever closely locally and regionally and will update the public accordingly.

(Ministry of Health)