Trinidad and Tobago records fourth dengue death for 2024

THE Ministry of Health has confirmed another dengue-related death, bringing the toll to four for the year.

In a news release on July 20, the ministry said there were 392 laboratory-confirmed cases of dengue fever, an increase of 89 cases and one death since the last report on July 17.

The third fatality was Quinton Gabriel, 16, of Siparia on July 16. The teen had sickle cell disease and died the day after he was warded at Point Fortin Hospital. Gabriel was the second teen to die from dengue the second recorded death was a teenager.

The first death was that of 65-year-old Sieunarine Mahadeo, of Barrackpore, on June 19. His was the first dengue-related death in Trinidad and Tobago since 2017.

Speaking at a media conference at the Ministry’s Head Office, Queen’s Park East, on July 19, Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh said the majority of dengue cases were in the southern and central counties of Trinidad, specifically counties Victoria, St Patrick and Caroni.

Epidemiology Division technical director Dr Avery Hinds said about half the confirmed cases were in young people between five and 19.

The release reminded dengue fever was spread by the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito, with symptoms appearing five-six days after being bitten, and lasting one-two weeks. Symptoms included fever, headaches, pain behind eyes, muscle and joint pains, skin rash, nausea/vomiting and diarrhoea.

It encouraged anyone showing symptoms of dengue to seek immediate medical treatment at their doctor or the nearest health facility.

Tips to reduce the source of dengue by eliminating of the breeding sites of the
Aedes aegypti mosquito include:

1. Dispose of all unwanted articles, derelict vehicles or appliances in the yard or environs which can collect water and become mosquito breeding grounds.

2. Cover water containers such as tanks, barrels, drums or buckets with a mosquito proof covering.

3. Cut down and remove all bush or undergrowth that can harbour mosquitoes.

4. Clean drains and guttering to allow for the free flow of water.

5. Use mosquito nets and insect repellent, when appropriate as a means of personal protection.