Nine people have died from dengue fever in Trinidad this year

The death toll from dengue fever has increased in Trinidad and Tobago, with the Ministry of Health confirming yesterday a ninth death linked to the virus.

There was no increase in infections, with the Ministry of Health reporting 911 confirmed cases, the same as in the August 21 update on dengue cases in the country.

The health ministry reported eight deaths from dengue as of last Wednesday.

The Ministry of Health said in its epidemiological update yesterday that there were “911 laboratory-confirmed cases of dengue and nine laboratory-confirmed deaths”.

Dengue, like diseases such as chikungunya and yellow fever, is transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito.

While continuing to call on the public to join the fight against dengue, the Ministry of Health earlier this week reminded that many potential breeding sites for insect vectors could also be “hidden”.

Mosquito eggs can survive for up to a year in dry environments and will hatch once they come into contact with water.

Neglected breeding sources include flower pot trays, which should be emptied and scrubbed weekly to remove mosquito eggs.

Abandoned buckets and other containers, discarded cans/paint tins and unmaintained wading pools/swimming pools can also be potential breeding grounds, the health department said.

People with ponds are advised to introduce fish that eat larvae, such as guppies.

Old tires and abandoned vehicles are also considered areas where water accumulates and serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes, as the Aedes aegypti mosquito lives in clear, still water and can take advantage of small amounts of water.

People are advised to further protect their homes by checking all windows, doors and vents.

The Ministry of Health reminds that reducing mosquito breeding sites at the source remains the best way to control mosquito populations.

The report states that any symptoms of possible dengue fever must be taken seriously.

Symptoms usually appear within five to six days of being bitten and last one to two weeks.

This may include fever, headache (sometimes severe), pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, rash, nausea/vomiting and diarrhea.

The Ministry of Health said anyone showing signs or symptoms of dengue should “seek medical attention immediately or go to the nearest health facility.” (Trinidad Express)