Dengue Alert: Are You Prepared for the Outbreak?

The Ministry of Health is urging the public to take necessary precautions against dengue fever following a recent outbreak in the Western Division, declared last month. The rise in dengue cases is aligning with heavy rains and flooding caused by Tropical Cyclone Rae, which has created favorable conditions for mosquito breeding.

As of February 23 this year, there have been 2,436 reported cases of dengue throughout the nation, with the Western Division accounting for 1,411 confirmed cases. The Central Division has reported 559 cases, the Northern Division 419, and the Eastern Division 47. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for preventative measures, particularly in the Western Division where the case counts are the highest.

In response to the outbreak, health officials are initiating a series of public health interventions, such as house-to-house surveillance, larval sampling, the application of larvicides, and adult mosquito spraying. They are also organizing cleanup campaigns aimed at eliminating potential mosquito breeding sites.

Moreover, the Ministry is prioritizing public awareness programs to inform the community about protective measures against dengue fever. Environmental Health Officers are conducting inspections and have been empowered to impose penalties on properties with mosquito infestations, reinforcing the importance of community responsibility in health management.

Residents are advised to remain alert, follow health advisories regarding dengue and leptospirosis shared via various media, and seek medical attention immediately if symptoms appear. These can range from mild headaches and fever to more severe forms, including hemorrhagic fevers.

Additionally, the current outbreak management efforts are conducted in collaboration with divisional health teams, utilizing proactive health strategies developed during last year’s training sessions. The Ministry’s dedication to controlling the spread of dengue provides a hopeful outlook, promoting community involvement and encouraging preventive actions at this critical juncture. Collectively, these initiatives aim to safeguard public health and mitigate the outbreak’s impact.

Overall, the proactive approach by health officials and the engagement of the community are vital in tackling this public health concern.