Health Ministry: 911 dengue cases, 9 deaths

THE Ministry of Health says there are now 911 cases of dengue fever in Trinidad and Tobago, resulting in nine deaths.

It sought to remind the public that dengue is spread by the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito, and that symptoms appear within six days of being bitten.

The symptoms, which can last up to two weeks, include: fever, muscle and joint pain, skin rash, nausea/vomiting, diarrhoea, pain behind eyes and headaches.

The public is urged to:

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 the free flow of water.

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