By Steve Thomas Observer Nevis Editor
(Basseterre, St. Kitts) ” Over two dozen cases of Dengue Fever have been found in the Federation and steps need to be taken to eradicate the mosquitoes which carry the illness, according to the Federation’s Chief Medical Dr. Patrick Martin. Most of the reports of Dengue have come from St. Kitts, though a few have come in from Nevis, Dr. Martin said. “St. Kitts and Nevis is a single public health space,” he said. “What happens in St. Kitts happens in Nevis and vice-versa.” The mosquito that spreads dengue viruses remains highly active, according to the Ministry of Health. There is no vaccine for Dengue Fever, Dr. Martin said. The best way to fight it is through keeping oneself healthy, both in body and in spirit, he said. “It is potentially fatal, especially for persons whose immune systems are already compromised,” Dr. Martin said. Those persons include those with uncontrolled diabetes, cancer, users of steroids or those who have contracted Dengue Fever in the past. Monday Online Code for Issue # 735 is NEO Typical Dengue Fever symptoms include fever with severe headache, muscle pain, joint pain, and pain behind the eyes. The symptoms are similar to the flu. Affected persons may be cared for safely and effectively at home.” However, persons showing signs of weakness and/or bleeding must seek medical attention immediately. Aspirin and Ibuprofen must not be used for fever and pain relief.” Paracetamol is the” safer option. According to the Ministry of Health, “The public is requested to continue to make regular searches for dengue mosquito breeding sites in and around households (e.g. pots, pans, cans, styrofoam containers, etc) and destroy them.” Eradication of breeding sites is the most effective prevention.” “Area spraying against the adult mosquitoes will continue but this measure is less effective than breeding site destruction. “With regards to general mosquito eradication, persons finding pools of stagnant water are asked to drain them or seek the advice or intervention of the Environmental Health Department through their community health center or by calling directly.” “Further health information may be obtained from personal physicians, community health centers and the Environmental Health Departments on both islands.” The public should be prepared for future outbreaks of Dengue Fever because of changing conditions, Dr. Martin said. “Climate change is a real issue,” Dr. Martin said. “It means more rain and the potential for more Dengue outbreaks in the future.”
