Dengue Outbreak in Jamaica May Persist Until Early Next Year, Says Health Minister

In a recent announcement, the Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. Christopher Tufton, has stated that the ongoing dengue outbreak in Jamaica could extend until the end of this year or possibly into early next year.

The outbreak was officially declared on Saturday, September 23, following a surge in cases during July and August.

As of the end of September, the number of presumed, suspected, and confirmed dengue cases across the island has risen to 1,117, prompting government officials to intensify their efforts to combat the virus.

Speaking during a parliamentary session, Dr. Tufton emphasised the need for additional planning and resources to effectively manage the outbreak.

The government has allocated approximately $96 million for mitigation efforts, primarily directed through the Ministry of Local Government and the Municipal Corporations.

In addition to this allocation, the National Health Fund has pledged $160 million to the National Works Agency for the purpose of cleaning major drains in high-risk communities.

These drains are known breeding grounds for the Aedes mosquitoes, which transmit the dengue virus.

Furthermore, the National Solid Waste Management Authority is set to receive $75 million to facilitate the removal of bulky waste, which often serves as breeding sites for the disease-carrying mosquitoes.

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