PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) — Trinidad and Tobago has reported its 13th dengue-related death as health authorities reveal that confirmed cases of the illness have now surpassed 1,300.
In a recent statement, the Ministry of Health confirmed that there have been 1,315 cases of dengue fever in the country so far this year, with 13 fatalities recorded. The ministry has been proactive in combating the spread of the disease, issuing 914 yellow fever notices as of September 5. These notices urge property owners to address mosquito breeding sites on their premises to help curb the outbreak.
In addition to the notices, the ministry is considering legal action against 43 property owners who have failed to comply with directives aimed at reducing mosquito habitats. Dengue fever is transmitted through the bite of the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which is also known for spreading Zika and chikungunya viruses.
The first dengue-related death of the year was recorded on June 19, when a 65-year-old individual succumbed to the virus. The Ministry of Health has advised that dengue symptoms typically appear five to six days after a mosquito bite and can last for one to two weeks. Symptoms include fever, headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, skin rash, vomiting, and diarrhea. The public is urged to seek immediate medical attention if they experience these symptoms.
The health authorities continue to stress the importance of eliminating mosquito breeding sites and taking preventive measures to control the spread of dengue fever across Trinidad and Tobago.
