Jamaicans Urged to Stay Alert Amid Rise in Dengue Cases

The Ministry of Health and Wellness is advising caution as Dengue cases have increased by 13 percent since the year’s start, surpassing figures from the past two years.

While not yet an outbreak, the presence of Type 2 Dengue virus in four parishes, not seen since 2010, raises the risk for an outbreak.

The Ministry, along with (Caribbean Public Health Agency ) CARPHA, is actively responding by reviewing infrastructure, enhancing vector control, and intensifying prevention efforts.

Public education and community-based vector control are being prioritised.

Fogging and larvicidal treatment are being increased, and testing capacity improved.

The Dengue virus comprises four strains and is transmitted via the bite of a female Aedes aegypti mosquito carrying the infection.

Breeding grounds for these mosquitoes encompass locations with stagnant water, such as puddles, water storage tanks, containers, and discarded tires.

The inadequate removal of garbage and subpar sanitation practices further facilitate the proliferation of these insects.

Jamaica, with consistent transmission since 1977, faces a recurring challenge. Citizens are urged to eliminate breeding sites and maintain hygiene to curb the virus’s spread.

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